Blood Flashcards
What is the primary function of erythrocytes?
Transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs
What is the shape of erythrocytes?
Biconcave discs
What protein do erythrocytes contain that binds to oxygen?
Hemoglobin
How many oxygen molecules can one hemoglobin molecule carry?
Four oxygen molecules
Fill in the blank: Erythrocytes are produced in the _______.
[bone marrow]
True or False: Erythrocytes have a nucleus.
False
What is the lifespan of a typical erythrocyte?
About 120 days
What happens to erythrocytes after their lifespan ends?
They are phagocytized by macrophages in the spleen and liver
What is the role of erythropoietin in erythrocyte production?
Stimulates the production of erythrocytes in response to low oxygen levels
What is the normal range of erythrocytes in adult males?
4.7 to 6.1 million cells per microliter of blood
What is the normal range of erythrocytes in adult females?
4.2 to 5.4 million cells per microliter of blood
Fill in the blank: The primary function of erythrocytes is to maintain _______ balance in the body.
[gas]
What is the significance of the biconcave shape of erythrocytes?
Increases surface area for gas exchange and allows flexibility to navigate through capillaries
How do erythrocytes contribute to maintaining blood pH?
By transporting carbon dioxide, which helps regulate acidity in the blood
What is the process by which erythrocytes are formed called?
Erythropoiesis
What are the subtypes of formed elements in blood?
The subtypes of formed elements in blood are:
* Erythrocytes (red blood cells)
* Leukocytes (white blood cells)
* Thrombocytes (platelets)
Formed elements play critical roles in oxygen transport, immune response, and blood clotting.
Neutrophil
What is the primary component of blood?
Plasma
True or False: Red blood cells contain a nucleus.
False
What is the main function of red blood cells?
To transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Fill in the blank: The liquid portion of blood is called __________.
plasma
What type of blood cell is primarily involved in immune response?
White blood cells (leukocytes)
Which protein in red blood cells binds to oxygen?
Hemoglobin
What is the average lifespan of a red blood cell?
Approximately 120 days