Podcast
Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?
What is the primary function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?
- Facilitating blood clotting
- Providing structural support
- Transporting respiratory gases (correct)
- Regulating blood pH levels
Why do erythrocytes lack a nucleus in most mammals?
Why do erythrocytes lack a nucleus in most mammals?
- To facilitate division
- To increase their lifespan
- To enhance immune function
- To optimize space for hemoglobin (correct)
What is the average lifespan of a red blood cell in the human body?
What is the average lifespan of a red blood cell in the human body?
- 90 days
- 150 days
- 60 days
- 120 days (correct)
Where does the destruction of old red blood cells primarily occur?
Where does the destruction of old red blood cells primarily occur?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the typical range of hemoglobin concentration in a healthy adult?
What is the typical range of hemoglobin concentration in a healthy adult?
Signup and view all the answers
Flashcards are hidden until you start studying
Study Notes
Erythrocytes
- Most abundant cells in the blood
- Healthy adult males have 5 to 5.5 million RBCs per mm³ of blood
- Produced in the red bone marrow
- Lack a nucleus in most mammals
- Biconcave shape
- Contain hemoglobin, a red-colored, iron-containing complex protein
- Hemoglobin gives RBCs their color and name
- Healthy individuals typically have 12-16 grams of hemoglobin per 100 milliliters of blood
- Hemoglobin transports respiratory gases
- Average lifespan of 120 days
- Destroyed in the spleen
- Spleen is often called the "graveyard of RBCs"
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
