Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, are crucial for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in vertebrates. They are biconcave disks without a nucleus, maximizing surface area for gas exchange. Hemoglobin, a protein containing iron, enables oxygen transport. In the lungs, hemoglobin binds oxygen, turning blood bright red. As blood circulates, oxygen is released to tissues, and carbon dioxide, a metabolic waste, is returned to the lungs for exhalation. Understanding red blood cells enhances our knowledge of oxygen distribution in organisms.

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

• To fight infections

• To transport oxygen and carbon dioxide

• To produce energy

• To store nutrients

What is the unique shape of red blood cells?

• Cuboidal

• Flat

• Biconcave disks

• Spherical

What protein in red blood cells is responsible for oxygen transport?

• Myoglobin

• Collagen

• Hemoglobin

• Keratin

What element in hemoglobin is crucial for its oxygen-carrying capacity?

• Calcium

• Iron

• Magnesium

• Zinc

What happens to red blood cells as they pass through the lungs?

• They stop circulating

• They become blue in color

• They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen

• They release carbon dioxide and absorb oxygen