Question

multiple choice question
which best defines a capillary bed?

all of the blood vessels entering, leaving, or contained within a given organ of the body
irregular blood - filled spaces in the liver and spleen that conform to the shape of the surrounding tissue
a network of capillaries supplied by a single arteriole or metarteriole
a point of convergence where a vein empties directly into another vein

Explanation:

To determine the best definition of a capillary bed, we analyze each option:

• The first option describes the overall blood vessels of an organ, not specifically a capillary bed.
• The second option refers to sinusoids in the liver and spleen, not a general capillary bed.
• The third option: A capillary bed is indeed a network of capillaries supplied by a single arteriole or metarteriole, which matches the definition.
• The fourth option describes a venous anastomosis, not a capillary bed.

Answer:

C. A network of capillaries supplied by a single arteriole or metarteriole