transport systems Flashcards
in mammals, what does blood contain?
plasma
red blood cells
white blood cells
what does blood do?
transporte nutrients (like glucose), oxygen and carbon dioxide around the body
what is plasma and what does it do?
a watery fluid which carries dissolved substances
describe red blood cells
specialised
no nucleus
contains haemoglobin
biconcave shape which allows them to carry oxygen more efficiently
what is the name given to the combination of haemoglobin and oxygen?
oxyhemoglobin
where is oxyhemoglobin formed?
in the lungs
in body tissues, what does oxyhaemoglobin do?
gives up oxygen
what are white blood cells part of?
the immune system
what are the two main types of white blood cells?
phagocytes and lymphocytes
what do phagocytes do?
carry out phagocytosis by engulfing pathogens
what do lymphocytes do?
produce antibodies to destroy pathogens
what are pathogens?
disease causing microorganisms e.g. bacteria
