Which type of blood vessels carry blood away from the heart?

Arteries are the type of blood vessels responsible for carrying blood away from the heart. They play a crucial role in the circulatory system by transporting oxygen-rich blood from the heart to various tissues and organs throughout the body. The walls of arteries are thick and elastic, allowing them to withstand the high pressure generated when the heart pumps blood. This elasticity also helps to maintain blood pressure and ensures smooth blood flow.

In contrast, veins carry blood back to the heart, and capillaries facilitate the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between blood and tissues. Venules are small vessels that collect blood from capillaries and transport it into veins, but they do not carry blood away from the heart. Understanding the distinct functions and structures of these blood vessels is essential for comprehending how the circulatory system operates.