The blood

• What are the four important parts of human blood?

  Blood plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
• What is the function of blood plasma?

  To transport dissolved substances around the body
• What does plasma transport from the small intestine to other organs?

  Soluble digestion products, such as glucose
• How does plasma assist in the removal of carbon dioxide?

  It transports carbon dioxide from body cells to the lungs to be exhaled
• What waste product does plasma transport from the liver to the kidneys?

  Urea
• What is the primary function of red blood cells?

  To transport oxygen from the lungs to body cells
• What molecule do red blood cells contain that is crucial for oxygen transport?

  Hemoglobin
• What happens to hemoglobin in the lungs?

  It combines with oxygen to form oxyhemoglobin
• What is the significance of red blood cells having no nucleus?

  It allows more room for hemoglobin
• What shape do red blood cells have, and why is it beneficial?

  They have a biconcave disk shape, which increases surface area for oxygen diffusion
• What is the primary function of white blood cells?

  To form part of the immune system
• What key feature do white blood cells contain that is essential for their function?

  A nucleus that contains DNA
• What are platelets, and what is their function?

  Tiny fragments of cells that help the blood to clot
• What is one use of donated blood in medicine?

  To replace blood loss during injury
• Why is it important to match blood types in transfusions?

  To prevent the body's immune system from rejecting the blood
• What is a risk associated with using blood products?

  The transmission of diseases through blood
• How is the risk of infection from blood products managed in the UK?

  By screening donated blood for infection
• What are the functions of the different parts of blood?

  • Blood plasma: Transports dissolved substances
  • Red blood cells: Transport oxygen
  • White blood cells: Part of the immune system
  • Platelets: Help blood to clot
• What are the uses and risks of blood products?

  Uses:

  • Replace blood loss during injury
  • Provide platelets for clotting
  • Supply proteins like antibodies

  
  

  Risks:

  • Blood type mismatch in transfusions
  • Transmission of diseases