Chapter 10: Problem 2

By what route does lymph make its way back to join the blood of the circulatory system?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Lymph is collected from the interstitial spaces by the lymphatic capillaries, which merge to form larger lymphatic vessels that transport the lymph to lymph nodes for filtration. After filtration, it is run through the larger lymphatic vessels to the lymphatic trunks, which drain into either the right lymphatic duct or the thoracic duct. These ducts then discharge the lymph into the venous circulation at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins, returning the lymph to the bloodstream.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Initial Pathway

Lymph is initially collected in the lymphatic capillaries, which are present throughout the body. These capillaries absorb the lymph from the interstitial spaces (spaces between cells).

Explaining the Midway Path

The lymphatic capillaries merge to form larger tubes called the lymphatic vessels. These vessels transport the lymph to lymph nodes, small structures that filter the lymph and remove harmful substances.

Movement to Larger Vessels

After filtration in the lymph nodes, the lymph is carried through larger lymphatic vessels, eventually converging to form lymphatic trunks.

Convergence into Ducts

The lymphatic trunks in turn drain into one of the two large lymphatic ducts. The right lymphatic duct drains lymph from the upper right side of the body, while the thoracic duct drains lymph from the rest of the body.

Joining the Blood Circulatory System

These ducts then empty the lymph into the venous circulation at the junction of internal jugular and subclavian veins. Hence, the lymph is returned to the bloodstream and circulates through the body.

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By what route does lymph make its way back to join the blood of the circulatory system?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the Initial Pathway

Explaining the Midway Path

Movement to Larger Vessels

Convergence into Ducts

Joining the Blood Circulatory System

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