Blood: Formed Elements Flashcards
1
Q
Erythrocytes
A
Red blood cells
2
Q
How much erythrocytes are in every litter of blood?
A
5 million
3
Q
Function of erythrocytes?
A
transport oxygen around the body
4
Q
Where are erythrocytes produced?
A
red bone marrow
5
Q
Structure of erythrocytes?
A
Biconcave shape allows greater surface area.
Round sides allow for efficient movement.
6
Q
Why must oxygen be carried by erythrocytes?
A
Oxygen is nonpolar so it is not soluble in blood
7
Q
What is hemoglobin?
A
a protein inside erythrocytes that is composed of four chains called globins
8
Q
What’s a heme?
A
a flat molecule within globins that holds an iron atom
9
Q
Function of leukocytes?
A
protect the body from foreign cells or substances
10
Q
How long do erythrocytes and leukocytes live for?
A
erythrocytes = 100-120 days
leukocytes = a couple days
