Question

Which of the following is not a characteristic of arteries?

• A. They carry oxygen rich blood
• B. Blood flows at high pressure
• C. They have thick elastic walls
• D. They have valves to prevent back flow

Answer 1

The correct option is D They have valves to prevent back flow

Arteries carry oxygen rich blood from the heart to all parts of the body. Since the heart pumps blood into the arteries the blood flow is always rapid and at high pressure. The arteries have to withstand the high pressure at which heart is pumping blood. Hence they have thick elastic walls. Veins carry the blood from all parts of the body to heart. The blood flow in the veins are comparitively at a low pressure. Veins have valves to prevent the back flow of blood and so that they flow only towards the heart.