What is the Difference Between Elastic and Muscular Arteries?

The main difference between elastic and muscular arteries lies in their composition and function. Here are the key differences:

1. Composition: Elastic arteries, such as the aorta and pulmonary arteries, contain a higher amount of elastic tissue in their tunica media layer. In contrast, muscular arteries, which include arteries like the brachial artery, radial artery, and femoral artery, have more smooth muscle cells in their tunica media layer.
2. Function: Elastic arteries are designed to handle the high pressure and volume of blood pumped by the heart. They maintain a relatively constant pressure gradient due to their elastic nature. On the other hand, muscular arteries are responsible for distributing blood to various organs. They may be more capable of vasoconstriction due to their higher smooth muscle content.

In summary, elastic arteries are primarily responsible for handling the force of blood coming from the heart, while muscular arteries are responsible for distributing blood to various organs and vasoconstriction.

Comparative Table: Elastic vs Muscular Arteries

Here is a table comparing the differences between elastic and muscular arteries:

Elastic arteries, also known as conducting arteries, are large arteries located close to the heart, such as the aorta and common iliac arteries. They have a large lumen diameter and a thinner tunica media, which allows them to expand and contract in response to the pulse. Muscular arteries, on the other hand, are smaller arteries located further from the heart, such as the femoral and mesenteric arteries. They have a smaller lumen diameter, a thicker tunica media, and play a leading role in vasoconstriction due to their increased smooth muscle content.