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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is carried by a red blood cell throughout the body?
A
Oxygen
B
Hormones
C
Nutrients
D
Carbon dioxide
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the primary function of red blood cells (RBCs). Red blood cells are specialized cells in the blood responsible for transporting gases throughout the body.
Identify the main gas transported by red blood cells. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues throughout the body.
Consider the role of hemoglobin in gas exchange. Hemoglobin not only carries oxygen but also helps in transporting carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation.
Differentiate between the substances listed in the problem. While hormones and nutrients are transported in the blood, they are not primarily carried by red blood cells. RBCs are specifically adapted for gas transport.
Conclude that the primary substance carried by red blood cells is oxygen, as they are designed to efficiently transport this gas to support cellular respiration in body tissues.