Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of red blood cells?
What role does plasma NOT play in the body?
How do red blood cells facilitate oxygen transport?
What process allows oxygen and glucose to enter body cells?
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Which substance does plasma carry to be excreted in urine?
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What is the approximate number of red blood cells in one cubic centimeter of blood?
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What shape do the red blood cells take in individuals with sickle cell anemia?
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Which blood component is primarily responsible for fighting infections?
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What is one reason microorganisms can rapidly multiply in blood?
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What substance is carried from the body tissues to the lungs by blood?
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What protein is found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen?
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Which of the following is NOT a function of plasma?
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What are the thin, curved red blood cells associated with sickle cell anemia known to cause?
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In malaria, where do the protozoa spend part of their life cycle?
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Study Notes
Blood Cells
- Blood consists of plasma, a watery liquid, containing millions of cells.
- White blood cells, identified by their purple stain, play a crucial role in combating infections.
- Red blood cells number about 5 billion per cubic centimeter and have a biconcave shape, enhancing flexibility and surface area for efficient oxygen uptake.
Plasma
- Plasma is responsible for transporting various substances but does not carry oxygen.
- It carries digested food from the intestines, carbon dioxide from cells, and urea—a waste product from the liver—to the kidneys for excretion.
Capillaries
- Capillaries are vital as every body cell is in close proximity to collect oxygen from red blood cells.
- The process of diffusion allows oxygen and glucose to enter cells while carbon dioxide moves into the blood.
Blood Tests
- Blood tests can diagnose many diseases by examining blood under a microscope.
Sickle Cell Anemia
- Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary condition characterized by faulty hemoglobin, resulting in red blood cells that curve into C-shapes.
- These shaped cells can obstruct narrow blood vessels, leading to tissue damage and pain.
Malaria
- Malaria is caused by protozoa that inhabit red blood cells, feeding on hemoglobin and causing the cells to burst, potentially blocking blood vessels.
Sleeping Sickness
- The protozoa responsible for sleeping sickness live in the bloodstream and lead to various symptoms like fever and headaches before affecting the brain.
Blood Components
- Red Blood Cell: Transports oxygen.
- White Blood Cell: Defends against infection.
- Platelet: Facilitates blood clotting.
- Plasma: Transports materials, hormones, and water.
Key Adaptations of Red Blood Cells
- Small and thin structure allows easy oxygen passage.
- Large surface area relative to volume promotes efficient oxygen absorption.
- Hemoglobin content enables strong binding with oxygen.
Substance Transport by Blood
- Oxygen: From lungs to body tissues.
- Carbon Dioxide: From body tissues to lungs.
- Digested Food: From small intestine to body cells.
- Urea: From liver/kidneys to kidneys.
Micro-organisms Growth in Blood
- Warm, moist environment of blood is optimal for microbial growth.
- Nutrients in blood provide energy for microorganisms.
- Circulation of blood facilitates rapid spread of microorganisms throughout the body.
Importance of Blood Plasma
- Plasma serves as a transport medium for essential substances like digested food, carbon dioxide, and urea.
- Oxygen is carried by red blood cells, bound to hemoglobin, highlighting blood's comprehensive transport system.
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of blood cells in this quiz. Learn about the different types of cells, including red blood cells and white blood cells, and their vital roles in maintaining health. Get ready to test your knowledge on blood composition and functions!
