How Do Elastic Arteries Differ from Muscular Arteries?
Elastic arteries differ from muscular arteries in several ways:
Elastic Fibers: Elastic arteries have a higher content of elastic fibers in the tunica media, which allows them to stretch and recoil. In contrast, muscular arteries have more smooth muscle and fewer elastic fibers. Size: Elastic arteries are generally larger in diameter than muscular arteries. Function: Elastic arteries primarily function to dampen the pressure fluctuations of the heartbeat, whereas muscular arteries mainly regulate blood flow to specific regions of the body by constricting or dilating.
