Final answer:
Carbon dioxide is a potent vasodilator of cerebral vasculature, causing the blood vessels to relax and widen. This increases blood flow to the brain, ensuring adequate oxygen supply to brain cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon dioxide is a potent vasodilator of cerebral vasculature. When carbon dioxide levels in the blood increase, it causes the blood vessels in the brain to relax and widen, resulting in vasodilation. This allows for increased blood flow to the brain and ensures adequate oxygen supply to the brain cells. Conversely, when carbon dioxide levels decrease, the blood vessels constrict, causing vasoconstriction and decreasing blood flow to the brain.