How do arteries, veins, and capillaries work together in the circulatory system?

The role of arteries, veins, and capillaries in the circulatory system is fundamental for maintaining proper blood flow and nutrient exchange throughout the body. The statement that arteries transport blood away from the heart and that capillaries connect to veins accurately reflects the structure and function of the vascular system.

Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to various tissues in the body. This blood delivers essential oxygen and nutrients that are vital for cell metabolism. As arteries branch into smaller vessels, they ultimately lead to capillaries, where the actual exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products occurs. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels and their thin walls allow for efficient diffusion between the blood and surrounding tissues.

After the exchange processes in the capillaries, deoxygenated blood is then collected into venules, which gradually merge into larger veins. Veins transport this deoxygenated blood back toward the heart, completing the circuit.

This description confirms that the chosen answer correctly describes the flow of blood through these three components of the circulatory system, illustrating how they form an interconnected network crucial for sustaining life.