Which of the following is a function of muscle in arterial walls?

The function of muscle in arterial walls primarily involves the ability to contractively reduce the lumen's diameter. This function is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and regulating blood flow. The smooth muscle layer in the arterial wall can contract and become narrower, a process known as vasoconstriction. This reduces the diameter of the lumen, which consequently increases the resistance to blood flow and helps maintain or elevate blood pressure as necessary.

This dynamic control of the lumen's size is essential for the distribution of blood throughout the body in response to varying physiological demands, such as during exercise or in response to stress. By adjusting the diameter of the arteries, the body can effectively manage how much blood is delivered to different organs and tissues.