alleryStart learning →At which point along a capillary does fluid re-enter the vessel because osmotic pressure exceeds hydrostatic pressure?
AAt the arteriolar end
BAt the midpoint region
CAt the lymphatic end
DAt the venule end
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. At the venule end
1. Two opposing pressures act across a capillary wall along its whole length.
2. At the arteriolar end the hydrostatic pressure is higher, so plasma is forced out into the tissue.
3. At the venule end hydrostatic pressure has fallen below the osmotic pressure in the vessel.
4. Fluid and cellular wastes therefore move back into the capillary at that venule end.
5. At the midpoint the two pressures are equal, so there is no net movement either way.
_Source: OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology (CC BY 4.0), Ch 26 "Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Balance", section Fluid Movement between Compartments_
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