What is the function of veins?

The function of veins is to carry deoxygenated blood from different parts of the body back to the heart.

Veins are thin-walled blood vessels that form part of the circulatory system. Unlike arteries, veins carry blood toward the heart. Most veins transport deoxygenated blood, except the pulmonary and umbilical veins, which carry oxygen-rich blood.

Structure of Veins

• Veins have thin, elastic walls.
• They have large lumens (inner spaces) to allow more blood to pass.
• Valves inside veins prevent backflow of blood.

Functions

1. Blood Return: Veins collect blood from capillaries and transport it to the heart.
2. Valves Function: Valves ensure one-way movement of blood, especially from lower parts of the body.
3. Storage: Veins act as blood reservoirs, holding about 60% of total blood volume.

Difference Between Arteries and Veins