Biology Chapter: Blood Composition and Function

What is the primary function of blood as connective tissue?

What percentage of blood volume in adults is approximately 5 liters?

What does the hematocrit indicate?

Which component makes up 55% of blood?

What are the three main types of blood cells present in the blood?

What is the role of white blood cells in the blood?

How is the amount of blood in the body affected?

What is the primary substance that constitutes the plasma component of blood?

What percentage of blood is made up of plasma?

Which formed element constitutes the largest percentage of blood?

What is the main component of plasma by percentage?

Which of the following white blood cells constitutes the highest percentage in blood?

What is the function of albumins in blood plasma?

Introduction to Blood

Blood is classified as connective tissue.
Functions include transporting vital substances, maintaining interstitial fluid stability, and distributing heat.

Blood Composition

Blood constitutes about 8% of body weight.
Adult blood volume averages around 5 liters.
Blood is composed of 45% cells (hematocrit) and 55% plasma.

Cellular Components

Red blood cells (RBCs) form the majority at 99% of packed cells.
White blood cells (WBCs) and platelets make up the remaining 1%.
Hematocrit serves as an indicator for medical conditions such as anemia and polycythemia.

Plasma Composition

Plasma accounts for 55% of blood volume.
Composition includes:
- Water (92%)
- Proteins (7%)
- Electrolytes, nutrients, vitamins, hormones, and waste products.

Blood Cell Types

RBCs: Essential for oxygen transport.
WBCs: Include five types:
- Neutrophils (54-62%)
- Eosinophils (1-3%)
- Basophils (less than 1%)
- Monocytes (2-8%)
- Lymphocytes (20-40%)
Platelets: Cell fragments important for clotting (4.8%).

Hematocrit Measurement

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in blood.
Normal hematocrit values reflect overall health and can indicate various blood disorders.

Peripheral Blood Smear

A method to visualize blood components under a microscope:
- Distinguishes between different types of blood cells.
- Assesses overall cell health and morphology.

Clinical Relevance

Changes in blood composition can signal conditions needing medical attention:
- Lower hematocrit may suggest anemia.
- Higher hematocrit may indicate polycythemia.

Explore the essential functions and composition of blood in this biology quiz. Learn about the different types of blood cells, plasma components, and the significance of hematocrit levels. Ideal for students studying human anatomy or physiology.