Final answer:
An embolus is a clot bubble or piece of debris that moves in the bloodstream, and when it becomes trapped, it is called an embolism. Examples of embolisms include heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms. They are medical emergencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
An embolus is a clot bubble of air, fat from broken bones, or piece of debris that is transported by the bloodstream and moves from its site of origin. When a portion of a thrombus breaks free from the blood vessel wall and enters the circulation, it is referred to as an embolus. This embolus can be large enough to block a vessel critical to a major organ, causing an embolism when it becomes trapped.
Some examples of embolisms include heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms. These are considered medical emergencies and can occur in the heart, brain, or lungs.