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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Problem 10

Textbook Question

What five major functions are performed by blood?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that blood is a connective tissue composed of plasma and formed elements (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets), and its functions are essential for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

Learn that one major function of blood is transportation. Blood transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues, carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs, nutrients from the digestive system to cells, and waste products to the kidneys for excretion.

Recognize that blood plays a critical role in regulation. It helps maintain pH balance through buffers, regulates body temperature by distributing heat, and maintains fluid balance through osmotic pressure.

Understand that blood is involved in protection. White blood cells and antibodies in the blood defend against pathogens, while platelets and clotting factors prevent excessive blood loss by forming clots.

Identify that blood also facilitates communication. Hormones and signaling molecules are transported via blood to target organs, enabling coordination of physiological processes.

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Key Concepts

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

Transportation

Blood plays a crucial role in transporting essential substances throughout the body. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. Additionally, blood transports nutrients from the digestive tract to cells and hormones from glands to target organs, ensuring that all body systems function effectively.

Regulation

Blood helps regulate various physiological parameters, including body temperature, pH levels, and fluid balance. By adjusting the flow of blood to the skin, the body can dissipate heat, while buffers in the blood maintain a stable pH. This regulatory function is vital for maintaining homeostasis, which is essential for overall health.

Protection

Blood provides protection through its role in the immune system and clotting mechanisms. White blood cells within the blood defend against pathogens, while platelets and clotting factors work together to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. This protective function is critical for healing and defending the body against infections.