Final answer:
Hemostasis involves three pathways: intrinsic, extrinsic, and common. Clotting factors and vitamin K play important roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formation of a blood clot involves a complex process known as hemostasis. There are three main pathways involved in hemostasis: the intrinsic pathway, the extrinsic pathway, and the common pathway. The intrinsic pathway is triggered by internal damage to the vessel wall, while the extrinsic pathway is activated by external tissue damage. Both pathways lead to the common pathway, where fibrin is produced to seal off the vessel. These pathways rely on various clotting factors, including calcium and vitamin K.