What type of blood vessel returns blood to the heart?

Veins are the type of blood vessel that returns blood to the heart. They play a crucial role in the circulatory system by carrying deoxygenated blood back from the tissues of the body to the heart, specifically to the right atrium. This is essential for the continuation of the circulatory process, as it allows the heart to pump the blood to the lungs for re-oxygenation before it is sent back out to the rest of the body.

Arteries, in contrast, carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the tissues. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that facilitate the exchange of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and waste products between blood and tissues, but they do not return blood to the heart. Arterioles are small branches of arteries that lead into capillary beds and also do not serve the function of returning blood to the heart. Thus, the role of veins is distinct and critical for the overall function of the cardiovascular system.