Circulatory System Flashcards
What are the two main parts of blood?
Plasma and cellular components
What percentage of blood volume does plasma make up?
About 55%
What constitutes approximately 45% of blood volume?
Cellular elements
What is the main function of plasma?
Transport medium and helps maintain blood pressure
What is the composition of plasma?
- 90% water
- 10% dissolved substances
What are red blood cells also known as?
Erythrocytes
What is the shape of red blood cells?
Biconcave disc shape
What protein do red blood cells contain that binds oxygen?
Hemoglobin
What is the main function of red blood cells?
Oxygen and carbon dioxide transport
What are platelets also called?
Thrombocytes
What is the function of platelets?
Activate and aggregate at sites of injury and promote blood clot formation
What are white blood cells also known as?
Leucocytes
What is the primary role of white blood cells?
Defend against pathogens
What do white blood cells produce?
Antibodies
What is the life span of red blood cells?
120 days
What is the approximate number of red blood cells per mm of blood in males?
5,500,000
What is the approximate number of white blood cells per mm of blood?
6,000
What is the life span of platelets?
2-8 days
Fill in the blank: The main function of white blood cells is to _______.
defend against pathogens
True or False: Red blood cells have a nucleus.
False
What are the two types of white blood cells mentioned?
- Granulocytes
- Monocytes
Where do red blood cells originate?
Red bone marrow
What is the relative size of red blood cells?
Small (8 um diameter)
What is the function of lymphocytes?
Play a role in the formation of antibodies
