Question

select your prediction for this experiment with regards to pulse rate and the artery’s proximity to the heart.
a. pulse rate is lower in arteries closest to the heart.
b. pulse rate is higher in arteries closest to the heart.
c. pulse rate is the same when detected in any location of the body.
select your prediction for this experiment with regards to the relative intensity of pulse pressure and the artery’s proximity to the heart.
a. intensity of pulse pressure will be higher closer to the heart.
b. intensity of pulse pressure will be the same in all locations of the body.
c. intensity of pulse pressure will be lower closer to the heart.

Explanation:

First Sub - Question (Pulse Rate and Artery's Proximity to Heart)

The pulse rate is determined by the heart's contractions. The heart's contractions generate the pulse, and the rate at which the heart contracts (heart rate) is what determines the pulse rate. Since the heart rate is constant (in a normal, non - pathological state) and the pulse is a result of the heart's contractions, the pulse rate should be the same regardless of where the artery is located in the body (as long as it is a site where the pulse can be detected). Option A is incorrect because the heart's contraction rate doesn't decrease closer to the heart. Option B is incorrect as the heart's contraction rate doesn't increase closer to the heart.

Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The heart pumps blood into the aorta (the artery closest to the heart) with a certain force. As the blood moves through the arterial system, the resistance in the blood vessels and the compliance of the arteries cause the intensity of the pulse pressure to decrease as we move away from the heart. So, the intensity of pulse pressure is higher closer to the heart. Option B is incorrect because the resistance and compliance of blood vessels cause changes in pulse pressure intensity. Option C is incorrect as the pulse pressure intensity is highest near the heart, not lower.

Answer:

C. Pulse rate is the same when detected in any location of the body.

Second Sub - Question (Pulse Pressure Intensity and Artery's Proximity to Heart)