Which of the following is true about hydrostatic pressure?

Hydrostatic pressure refers to the pressure exerted by a fluid at rest due to the gravitational force acting on it. In the context of blood vessels, it is the pressure generated by the fluid (blood) within the blood vessels that pushes water and solutes out of the capillaries into the surrounding tissues. This process is crucial for nutrient delivery and waste removal from cells, which is an essential aspect of maintaining homeostasis.

When blood circulates through the capillaries, the hydrostatic pressure is greater than the osmotic pressure pulling water into the blood vessels. This difference allows for the net movement of water out of the capillaries, facilitating fluid exchange with the interstitial space. Therefore, the statement that hydrostatic pressure pushes water out of blood vessels accurately reflects this physiological process. Understanding the role of hydrostatic pressure is vital for comprehending fluid dynamics in the body, particularly in the context of conditions such as edema, where fluid balance is disrupted.