Unit 36: Tension in the Walls of Blood Vessels
Practice Problems
Note: problem difficulty is ranked using a star system.
(*) One-star problems are fundamental to the unit, and can be done relatively quickly. Use these problems to introduce yourself to the material.
(**) Two-star problems are more difficult, and require an understanding of one or two key concepts. Use these problems to test your understanding of the material.
(***) Three-star problems are the most difficult, and require some creative thinking in addition to a deep familiarity with multiple key concepts. Use these problems to challenge yourself; if you can complete one of these, you’re on your way to mastering the material.
*Q36.1) Calculate the difference in pressure across the walls of a blood vessel of radius 1mm if the tension in its walls is 120 N/m.
**Q36.2) Consider the graph below which depicts the tension in the walls of three blood vessels (A, B, and C) as a function of their radii. Which vessel is most likely to experience an aneurysm?
***Q36.4) Consider a blood vessel that rises and tapers as shown below. Calculate the unknown tension in the walls of the vessel, T₂. You may treat blood as an ideal fluid with a specific gravity of 1.05.
**Q36.3) Consider the graph below which depicts the tension in the walls of three blood vessels in equilibrium (A, B, and C) as a function of their radii. Which one represents the highest aneurysm risk?