Blood (Transport In Animals). Flashcards
List the components of blood.
- Red blood cells.
- White blood cells.
- Platelets.
- Plasma.
What is the structure of a red blood cell?
Biconcave discs containing no nucleus for more space for the red pigmented protein hemoglobin.
What is the structure of a white blood cell?
Large cells containing a large/lobed nucleus.
What is the structure of platelets?
Small fragments of cells.
What is the structure of plasma?
The liquid in blood vessels which contains blood cells, ions, soluble nutrients, hormones, water and carbon dioxide.
What is the function of red blood cells?
Red blood cells transport oxygen around the body from the lungs to cells that require it for aerobic respiration.
What is the function of white blood cells?
White blood cells defend the body against infection by pathogens by carrying out phagocytosis and antibody production.
What are the two types of white blood cells?
- Lymphocytes.
- Phagocytes.
What is the function of platelets?
Platelets are involved in helping the blood clot.
What is the function of plasma?
Plasma is important for the transport of waste products, soluble nutrients, mineral ions, hormones, and heat energy.
What are the roles of blood clotting?
Blood clotting prevents blood loss and the entry of pathogens.
Define phagocytosis.
The process by which a phagocyte (a type of white blood cell) engulfs and destroys pathogens.
What are the functions of lymphocytes and phagocytes?
Lymphocytes - antibody production.
Phagocytes - engulfing pathogens by phagocytosis.
What is the process of clotting?
Platelets release chemicals that cause soluble fibrinogen proteins to convert into insoluble fibrin and form an insoluble mesh across the wound, trapping red blood cells and therefore forming a clot.
What is the purpose of blood clotting?
- Blood clotting prevents continued / significant blood loss from wounds.
- Prevents entry of microorganisms that could cause infection.
