Studied by 1 person
what is blood composed off?
1) red blood cells (erythrocytes)
2) Plasma
3) white blood cells
4) platelets
Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
Carry Oxygen to all living tissue. They contain a protein called haemoglobin, giving blood its red colour, which when combined with oxygen forms oxyhaemoglobin.
They are round, flattened discs with an indented shape giving them a large surface area and allowing them to flow easily within plasma. A drop of blood contains millions of red blood cells.
white blood cells (leucocytes)
The components of blood that protect the body from infections, they account for less than 1 per cent of blood volume.
They identify, destroy and remove from the body pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. they originate in bone marrow.
Plasma
The straw-coloured liquid in which all blood cells are suspended.
It is approximately 90 per cent water and contains electrolytes such as Sodium, potassium and proteins. It also carries carbon dioxide, dissolved as carbonic acid.
Platelets (thrombocytes)
disc-shaped cell fragments produced in the bone marrow.
Their primary function is clotting to prevent blood loss, sticking to the damaged area to form a temporary plug to seal the break.
Lymphatic system
The lymphatic system is a drainage system and also forms part of the immune system.
This system is responsible for transporting a clear watery fluid know as: lymph which contains white blood cells, debris of other cells and bacteria.
This system helps the body get rid of excess fluid and waste products through excretion of urine and faeces
