Biology B2 Red blood cells - Structure and function Flashcards
what is the structure of red blood cells ?
They are unique . Red blood cell shape is biconcave and they are small and flexible which allows them to squeeze along narrow capillaries.
Red blood cells have a thin cell membrane so liquids can get through.
Red blood cells do not have a nucleus allowing them to change shape and move through out your body easily.
Red blood cells do not have a mitochondria so the oxygen is not utilized by the red blood cells. Red blood cells also don’t have an endoplasmic reticulum.
where are red blood cells produced and for how long
Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow where they stay for about 120 days.
what is the main function of red blood cells ?
The main function is to carry oxygen from the lungs and deliver it throughout our body. They also transfer waste such as carbon dioxide back to our lungs to exhale.
what is haemoglobin ?
haemoglobin contains iron which allows it to pick up oxygen from the air we breathe and deliver it everywhere in the body. Haemoglobin gives red blood cells their colour.
what is the difference between red blood cells and white blood cells ?
Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues and carbon dioxide away from tissue. White blood cells fight of infections.
