umbilical cord
Definition
The umbilical cord is a vascular structure that connects a fetus to the placenta in the womb. It is attached to the fetus's abdomen by the belly button.
The umbilical cord is made up of three blood vessels: two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein. The umbilical arteries carry oxygen-poor blood from the fetus to the placenta, and the umbilical vein carries oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus.
The umbilical cord is about 1 to 2 inches in diameter and 18 to 20 inches long. It is covered in a jelly-like substance called Wharton's jelly, which protects it from damage.
The umbilical cord is clamped and cut shortly after the baby is born. The stump of the cord falls off a few days later.
The umbilical cord contains stem cells that can be used to treat a variety of diseases. These stem cells are being studied for their potential to treat diseases such as leukaemia, sickle cell anaemia, and spinal cord injuries.
How can the word be used?
The umbilical cord is a long, flexible cord that connects the fetus to the placenta.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- umbilical cord (a cord that connects the fetus to the placenta).
- umbilicus (the navel, the scar left after the umbilical cord is cut).
Etymology
The word "umbilical cord" comes from the Latin word "umbilicus", which means "navel". The Latin word "umbilicus" is related to the Greek word "omphalos", which also means "navel".
The word "umbilical cord" is first attested in English in the 14th century. It was originally used to refer to the navel, but it soon came to be used to refer to the cord itself.
Question
What does the umbilical cord do?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the structure and function of the umbilical cord in human development. Describe its role in the exchange of substances between the fetus and the mother during pregnancy. Provide an example of a critical nutrient that is transferred through the umbilical cord.
Answer:
The umbilical cord is a flexible tube-like structure that connects the developing foetus to the placenta during pregnancy. It consists of three blood vessels: two arteries and one vein, encased in a protective gel-like substance called Wharton's jelly. The umbilical cord serves as a lifeline for the developing fetus, providing essential nutrients and oxygen while removing waste products.
Functionally, the umbilical cord plays a vital role in facilitating the exchange of substances between the fetus and the mother. The umbilical vein carries oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the foetus, providing necessary sustenance for growth and development. Simultaneously, the two umbilical arteries transport deoxygenated and waste-laden blood from the fetus back to the placenta for elimination.
An example of a critical nutrient transferred through the umbilical cord is oxygen. Oxygen is essential for the metabolic processes occurring within the developing foetus. The umbilical cord ensures a constant supply of oxygen from the mother's bloodstream to the fetal circulatory system, supporting the foetus's energy production and overall health.
In conclusion, the umbilical cord is a crucial structure in human development, connecting the foetus to the placenta and facilitating the exchange of substances between the foetus and the mother. Its role in providing nutrients and oxygen underscores its significance in supporting fetal growth and well-being during pregnancy.