Final answer:
Clotting involves various chemicals including serotonin, adenosine diphosphate (ADP), prostaglandins, and phospholipids, all essential for hemostasis and clot formation. ADP and platelet-derived growth factor help in creating a platelet plug, while prostaglandins and phospholipids maintain vasoconstriction. Fibrinolysis, involving plasmin, eventually degrades the clot to restore normal blood flow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The array of chemicals that cause clotting includes several key substances essential for the process of hemostasis. In addition to serotonin, which maintains vasoconstriction, other substances involve adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and platelet-derived growth factor. ADP helps additional platelets to adhere to the injury site, reinforcing and expanding the platelet plug. Serotonin contributes to maintaining vasoconstriction to minimize blood flow to the affected area.
Furthermore, prostaglandins and phospholipids also maintain vasoconstriction and activate further clotting chemicals. Another important process during clotting is fibrinolysis, the gradual degradation of a clot. This involves the conversion of plasminogen into plasmin which breaks down the fibrin clot. Additionally, substances like bradykinin, a vasodilator, help to reverse the effects of serotonin and prostaglandins and restore circulation.