Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes

Anatomy & Physiology

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes

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Multiple Choice

What feature of erythrocytes accounts for their short lifespan of approximately 120 days?

Ability to undergo mitosis

High metabolic rate

Lack of a nucleus

Presence of hemoglobin

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of erythrocytes: Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are unique in that they lack a nucleus. This is a key feature that differentiates them from most other cells in the body.

Consider the implications of lacking a nucleus: Without a nucleus, erythrocytes cannot undergo mitosis, which means they cannot divide or repair themselves. This limits their ability to sustain themselves over time.

Evaluate the metabolic activity: Erythrocytes have a relatively high metabolic rate due to their role in transporting oxygen throughout the body. This high metabolic activity contributes to their wear and tear.

Assess the role of hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is the protein in erythrocytes responsible for oxygen transport. While crucial for their function, the presence of hemoglobin does not directly affect their lifespan.

Conclude the reason for the short lifespan: The lack of a nucleus is the primary reason erythrocytes have a short lifespan of approximately 120 days, as it prevents them from repairing or replicating themselves.