Circulatory System - Blood

Cards (12)

What is the role of red blood cells?
To carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues
Red blood cells are packed full of a large proteins called haemoglobin, which bind to oxygen.
How are red blood cells adapted for their function?
They have no nucleus to fit in more haemoglobin
They have a biconcave shape to increase their surface area
What is the role of white blood cells?
To defend against pathogens
Phagocytosis is the process by which a white blood cell binds to, and then engulfs a pathogen, in order to destroy it.
How do antibodies help defend against pathogens?
They bind to pathogens and help immune cells destroy them
Do white blood cells have a nucleus?
Yes
What is the role of platelets?
To clot the blood when a blood vessel breaks
why it is so important that our blood clots when we are cut.

Prevents blood from leaving the blood vessels
Prevents pathogens from entering the blood
Do platelets have a nucleus?
No
What is the role of blood plasma?
To carry substances and cells around the body
What can plasma carry
Glucose
Amino acids
Fatty acids
Glycerol
Carbon dioxide
Urea
Antibodies
Hormones