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

Introduction To Blood

Anatomy & Physiology

17. The Blood

Introduction To Blood

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2:09 minutes

Problem 3

Textbook Question

All of the following are true of RBCs except:
a. Biconcave disc shape
b. Life span of approximately 120 days
c. Contain hemoglobin
d. Contain nuclei

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the structure and function of red blood cells (RBCs). RBCs are specialized cells responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. They have a biconcave disc shape, which increases their surface area for gas exchange.

Step 2: Recall the lifespan of RBCs. RBCs typically have a life span of approximately 120 days before being removed from circulation by the spleen and liver.

Step 3: Review the composition of RBCs. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen and carbon dioxide, enabling efficient transport of these gases.

Step 4: Examine the presence of nuclei in RBCs. Mature RBCs in humans do not contain nuclei; they lose their nuclei during development to maximize space for hemoglobin and improve flexibility for traveling through capillaries.

Step 5: Compare the options provided in the question. Identify the statement that is not true based on the characteristics of RBCs discussed above.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Red Blood Cell Structure

Red blood cells (RBCs) are characterized by their biconcave disc shape, which increases surface area for gas exchange and allows flexibility to navigate through capillaries. This unique shape is crucial for their primary function of transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body.

Lifespan of Red Blood Cells

The average lifespan of red blood cells is approximately 120 days. After this period, they are typically removed from circulation by the spleen and liver, where they are broken down and recycled. Understanding this lifespan is important for comprehending the dynamics of blood cell production and turnover.

Nucleus in Red Blood Cells

Mature red blood cells in humans do not contain a nucleus, which is a key distinguishing feature. This absence allows more space for hemoglobin, the protein responsible for oxygen transport. In contrast, other types of cells, such as white blood cells, do contain nuclei and serve different functions in the immune system.