In the fetus, the ductus arteriosus permits blood to flow:
A)from the pulmonary artery to the aorta
B)from the aorta to the pulmonary artery
C)from the pulmonary artery to the pulmonary vein
D)from the aorta to the pulmonary vein

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ductus arteriosus allows blood to bypass the lungs in the fetus by shunting blood from the pulmonary artery to the aorta. This is because the fetus receives oxygen from the mother's bloodstream through the placenta, rather than from breathing air. The ductus arteriosus typically closes shortly after birth, directing blood flow to the lungs for oxygenation.

In the Fetus, the Ductus Arteriosus Permits Blood to Flow