Final answer:
Total peripheral resistance refers to the overall resistance that the blood encounters as it travels through the peripheral blood vessels, particularly the arterioles. Intrinsic, extrinsic, and hormonal control of arteriolar radius work together to impact total peripheral resistance, influencing blood pressure and blood flow throughout the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Total peripheral resistance refers to the overall resistance that the blood encounters as it travels through the peripheral blood vessels, particularly the arterioles. It is an important factor in regulating blood pressure and blood flow. Intrinsic control of arteriolar radius involves the myogenic response, where the smooth muscles in the walls of arterioles constrict or dilate in response to changes in blood flow and pressure. Extrinsic control of arteriolar radius is mediated by the nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system, which can stimulate vasoconstriction or vasodilation. Hormonal control of arteriolar radius is mediated by various hormones, such as angiotensin II and natriuretic peptides, which can regulate vasoconstriction or vasodilation. These intrinsic, extrinsic, and hormonal control mechanisms work together to impact total peripheral resistance, influencing blood pressure and blood flow throughout the body.