How does venous blood differ from arterial blood?

Venous blood is characterized by several distinct properties that set it apart from arterial blood. One of the primary differences is that venous blood tends to be deoxygenated, which gives it a darker red color compared to the bright red color of oxygenated arterial blood. This difference in color is due to the varying levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide present in the blood.

Additionally, venous blood is found under lower pressure than arterial blood, which causes it to flow more slowly and, in many cases, to clot more readily due to the slower movement and the reduced flow of blood. This is important for bodily functions such as healing wounds. The low-pressure nature of the venous system facilitates the return of blood to the heart without the need for the higher pressure found in arteries, which helps in distributing oxygenated blood throughout the body.

In comparison, the other choices reflect incorrect characteristics of venous blood. Venous blood does not spur from wounds; instead, it tends to ooze or flow more steadily. It is not faster than arterial blood; flow rates in the venous system are generally slower, and venous blood is darker rather than less red. Finally, it is not correct to characterize venous blood as bright red or under high pressure,