Red Blood Cells: Functions and Importance

What is the primary function of red blood cells in the human body?

• To fight infections

• To transport oxygen

• To produce hormones

• To digest food

True or False. Red blood cells have a nucleus.

• True

• False

Which of the following diseases is caused by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin?

• Diabetes

• Anemia

• Hypertension

• Asthma

Red blood cells are produced in which part of the body?

• Heart

• Liver

• Bone marrow

• Lungs

How do red blood cells contribute to the body's ability to maintain homeostasis?

• By regulating body temperature

• By transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide

• By producing antibodies

• By breaking down nutrients

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Which component of red blood cells binds to oxygen?

• Hemoglobin

• Plasma

• Platelets

• White blood cells

Explain how the shape of red blood cells is related to their function.

• Their spherical shape allows them to store more nutrients.

• Their biconcave shape increases surface area for gas exchange.

• Their elongated shape helps them move through blood vessels quickly.

• Their irregular shape helps them fight infections.

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What happens to red blood cells when they are damaged or old?

• They are excreted through the kidneys.

• They are broken down in the liver and spleen.

• They are converted into white blood cells.

• They are stored in the bone marrow.

Which of the following is a symptom of having too few red blood cells?

• High blood pressure

• Fatigue and weakness

• Increased appetite

• Rapid weight gain

Describe the role of red blood cells in the circulatory system.

• They produce hormones that regulate blood pressure.

• They transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carbon dioxide from the body to the lungs.

• They digest nutrients and distribute them throughout the body.

• They protect the body from pathogens by producing antibodies.