What is the function of arterioles in the circulatory system?

Arterioles serve as crucial connectors between arteries and capillaries in the circulatory system. They are small-diameter blood vessels that branch off from arteries and lead directly into capillary networks. This function is vital because arterioles help regulate blood flow and pressure throughout the body. By adjusting their diameter through vasoconstriction or vasodilation, arterioles can control the amount of blood that enters the capillaries, thus ensuring that tissues receive the appropriate supply of oxygen and nutrients according to their needs.

Understanding the function of arterioles is essential for grasping how blood circulation is maintained and regulated, as they play a pivotal role in distributing blood to various parts of the body. The other choices highlight different functions within the circulatory system but do not accurately capture the primary role of arterioles in connecting arteries to capillaries.