Final answer:
Fibrinolysis is the gradual degradation of the clot that helps to bring the edges of a damaged vessel closer together. As contractile proteins within the platelets pull on the fibrin threads, it consolidates or tightens the fibrin clot. This process is important for effective healing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fibrinolysis is the gradual degradation of the clot. During this process, the inactive protein plasminogen is converted into the active plasmin, which gradually breaks down the fibrin of the clot. As contractile proteins within the platelets pull on the fibrin threads, it helps to bring the edges of a damaged vessel closer together. This consolidation or tightening of the fibrin clot allows for more effective healing.