Blood

• What are the four main components of blood?

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

  To carry oxygen from lungs to tissues
• What pigment do red blood cells contain?

  Hemoglobin
• What does hemoglobin combine with to form oxyhemoglobin?

  Oxygen
• What happens to oxyhemoglobin in the tissues?

  It splits back into hemoglobin and oxygen
• What are the two adaptations of red blood cells?

  They lack a nucleus and are biconcave
• How does the biconcave shape of red blood cells benefit them?

  It increases their surface area for oxygen absorption
• What percentage of blood do white blood cells make up?

  Less than 1%
• What is the primary function of white blood cells?

  To defend against infections
• Do white blood cells have a nucleus?

  Yes, they have a nucleus
• Why do red blood cells lack a nucleus?

  To provide more space for hemoglobin
• What is phagocytosis?

  Engulfing or consuming microorganisms
• How do antibodies help in defending against pathogens?

  They bind to pathogens and help destroy them
• What is the role of anti-toxins produced by white blood cells?

  To neutralize toxins from pathogens
• What are platelets?

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

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

  Platelets rush to the wound to clot
• Why are platelets important besides clotting?

  They help prevent microorganisms from entering
• What is plasma?

  A pale yellow liquid that makes blood watery
• What does plasma carry in the blood?

  Nutrients, waste products, hormones, and cells
• How much blood does an average adult have?

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

  Insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues
• What is artificial blood?

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

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

  It doesn't contain red blood cells
• What is a blood transfusion?

  Receiving real blood from donors
• Why is a blood transfusion better than artificial blood?

  It contains real red blood cells
• What is the key to surviving blood loss?

  Receiving red blood cells through transfusion
• What are the components and functions of blood?

  • Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Carry oxygen
  • White Blood Cells (WBCs): Defend against infections
  • Platelets: Aid in blood clotting
  • Plasma: Transports nutrients, waste, and cells
• What are the differences between artificial blood and blood transfusions?

  • Artificial Blood:
  • Made of salt water
  • Adds volume but no oxygen transport
  • Blood Transfusion:
  • Real blood from donors
  • Contains red blood cells for oxygen transport