Circulatory System - Blood Flashcards
1
Q
State the purpose of red blood cells.
A
To carry oxygen around the body
2
Q
What are red blood cells also called?
A
Erythrocytes
3
Q
(Exam-style question)
A
- They contain haemoglobin which oxygen binds to in the lungs, and release it in body tissues
- They have a biconcave disc shape, providing a large surface area for absorbing oxygen
- They don’t have a nucleus, allowing for more room to carry oxygen
4
Q
Describe the purpose of white blood cells.
A
To defend the body against infection
5
Q
What are phagocytes?
A
White blood cells that can change shape to engulf pathogens
6
Q
What are lymphocytes?
A
White blood cells that produce antibodies against pathogens
7
Q
What are platelets?
A
Small fragments of cells, which have no nucleus
8
Q
(Exam-style question)
A
9
Q
What is plasmid?
A
The liquid that carries everything in the blood
