Question

unit 4 - challenge 4.2: development
which of the following is the function of the foramen ovale?
a.) causes oxygenated blood to bypass the fetal liver on its way to the inferior vena cava.
b.) receives oxygenated blood from the mother.
c.) diverts blood from the pulmonary artery into the aorta.
d.) bypasses the lungs by shifting some of the blood directly from the right atrium to the left atrium and avoiding the pulmonary trunk altogether.

Explanation:

The foramen ovale is a hole between the two atria (upper chambers) of the heart. In the fetus, it allows blood to bypass the non - functioning lungs. Blood is shunted from the right atrium to the left atrium, thus avoiding the pulmonary trunk (which leads to the lungs).

• Option a: The ductus venosus causes oxygenated blood to bypass the fetal liver, not the foramen ovale.
• Option b: The umbilical vein receives oxygenated blood from the mother.
• Option c: The ductus arteriosus diverts blood from the pulmonary artery into the aorta.

Answer:

d. Bypasses the lungs by shifting some of the blood directly from the right atrium to the left atrium and avoiding the pulmonary trunk altogether.