Bifurcation
Bifurcation
Bifurcation (pronunciation: /ˌbīfərˈkāSH(ə)n/) is a term used in various fields of study, including mathematics, physics, and biology. In the medical field, it refers to the division of a body structure into two branches, such as blood vessels or bronchi. The term is derived from the Latin words 'bis', meaning 'twice', and 'furca', meaning 'fork'.
Medical Usage
In medicine, bifurcation is often used to describe the splitting of a blood vessel, nerve, or the bronchi in the respiratory system. This is a common occurrence in the human body, allowing for the distribution of blood, nerve signals, and air to various parts of the body. For example, the aorta, the main artery in the human body, bifurcates into the common iliac arteries, which further bifurcate into the internal and external iliac arteries.
Related Terms
- Aorta: The main and largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen, where it bifurcates into the common iliac arteries.
- Bronchi: The main passageway into the lungs which bifurcates into smaller tubes, known as bronchioles.
- Iliac Arteries: These are the large arteries that provide blood to the pelvis and legs. They are formed by the bifurcation of the aorta in the lower abdomen.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bifurcation
- Wikipedia's article - Bifurcation
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