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How is vasodilation defined?

  1. Contraction of blood vessels

  2. Expansion of blood vessels

  3. Constriction of arteries

  4. Reduction of blood flow

The correct answer is: Expansion of blood vessels

Vasodilation is defined as the expansion of blood vessels, particularly the widening of the arteries and arterioles. This physiological process occurs when the smooth muscle cells in the blood vessel walls relax, leading to an increase in the diameter of the vessels. As a result, more blood can flow through the expanded vessels, which can decrease blood pressure and enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues. Vasodilation plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, such as thermoregulation and the body's response to injury or inflammation, where increased blood flow is needed to facilitate healing. In contrast, the other options refer to processes that involve narrowing or constriction of blood vessels, which is opposite to vasodilation, or indicate a decreased blood flow, which is not a direct definition of vasodilation itself.