Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the most abundant type of formed element in human blood?
A
White blood cells (leukocytes)
B
Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
C
Plasma proteins
D
Platelets (thrombocytes)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'formed elements' in blood. Formed elements refer to the cellular components of blood, which include red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Plasma proteins are not considered formed elements as they are dissolved in the plasma.
Recall the primary function of each formed element: Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are responsible for oxygen transport, white blood cells (leukocytes) are involved in immune defense, and platelets (thrombocytes) play a role in blood clotting.
Consider the relative abundance of each type of formed element in human blood. Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are the most numerous, making up about 99% of the formed elements. White blood cells and platelets are present in much smaller quantities.
Review the composition of blood: Blood is composed of plasma (the liquid portion) and formed elements. While plasma proteins are abundant in the plasma, they are not part of the formed elements.
Conclude that red blood cells (erythrocytes) are the most abundant type of formed element in human blood, based on their function and relative proportion compared to other formed elements.