Pulse pressure in a particular vessel is determined chiefly by:
In advancing age due to loss in elasticity of blood vessels, stretching decreases which results in increased pressure during systole with normal diastolic blood pressure (systolic hypertension). The blood vessels behave like a rigid tube. It is characterized by high pulse pressure. Pulse pressure is determined by elasticity of vessel wall that varies inversely with total peripheral resistance.
Distance from heart
Frictional characteristics of lumen
Distensibility
Cross-sectional area