Yes, veins carry carbon dioxide (CO2). Veins are blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart. The blood in veins is deoxygenated, meaning it has a lower oxygen content and a higher carbon dioxide content. This is because the blood has delivered oxygen to the body's tissues and picked up carbon dioxide as a waste product.
The carbon dioxide in the blood is transported to the lungs, where it is exhaled. This is part of the body's natural gas exchange process, which is essential for maintaining life.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Arteries: Carry oxygenated blood away from the heart.
- Veins: Carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
- Capillaries: Connect arteries and veins, allowing for gas exchange between the blood and tissues.
In summary, veins carry CO2 because they carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart for reoxygenation.
