What Is Blood Made of? / What Does Blood Do?

• What are the four main components of blood?

  Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma
• What is the primary role of red blood cells (RBC)?


  To carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues
• What pigment do red blood cells contain that allows them to carry oxygen?

  Hemoglobin
• What happens to hemoglobin when it binds with oxygen?


  It becomes oxyhemoglobin
• How do red blood cells release oxygen to the tissues?


  Oxyhemoglobin splits back into hemoglobin and oxygen
• What are the two adaptations of red blood cells that aid in their function?


  They lack a nucleus and have a biconcave disc shape
• What is the function of white blood cells?


  To defend the body against infection
• What percentage of blood do white blood cells make up?


  Less than 1%
• Name one way white blood cells defend against pathogens.


  Phagocytosis
• What is the role of antibodies produced by white blood cells?


  To bind to pathogens and help destroy them
• What do anti-toxins produced by white blood cells do?


  They neutralize toxins produced by pathogens
• Do white blood cells have a nucleus?


  Yes, they have a nucleus
• What are platelets?


  Small fragments of cells
• What is the primary function of platelets?


  To help in blood clotting
• What happens when a cut occurs in the skin?

  Platelets rush to the wound and help patch it up
• Why are platelets important besides stopping blood loss?


  They help prevent microorganisms from entering the body
• What is plasma?


  A pale yellow liquid that makes up over half of blood's volume
• What does plasma carry in the blood?


  Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, nutrients, waste products, hormones, and proteins
• How much blood does an average adult have in their circulatory system?


  About five liters
• What can happen if blood volume drops too much?


  There may not be enough blood to deliver oxygen to tissues
• What is artificial blood?


  A blood substitute that consists of salt water
• What is the main benefit of artificial blood?


  It adds volume to the circulatory system
• What is a limitation of artificial blood?


  It does not contain red blood cells
• What is a blood transfusion?


  A procedure where a person receives real blood from donors
• Why is a blood transfusion important?


  It provides red blood cells necessary for surviving blood loss
• What are the components and functions of blood?

  • Red Blood Cells (RBC): Carry oxygen
  • White Blood Cells (WBC): Defend against infection
  • Platelets: Help in blood clotting
  • Plasma: Transports various substances
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of artificial blood compared to blood transfusions?


  Strengths:

  • Adds volume to the circulatory system

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Does not contain red blood cells
  • Limited oxygen transport capability