Video Notes: Blood Composition, Plasma Proteins, Osmotic Pressure, and pH

Flashcards covering pH scale, blood components (plasma, buffy coat, RBCs, WBCs, platelets), RBC function, neutrophils, plasma protein synthesis, albumin, osmotic pressure, hematocrit, anemia, polycythemia, and related concepts.

On the pH scale, what values correspond to acid, neutral, and base?

1 = acid; 7 = neutral; 14 = base.

What percentage of blood is plasma?

55% of blood is plasma.

What is the buffy coat?

The middle thin layer containing white blood cells and platelets.

What does the buffy coat contain?

White blood cells and platelets.

What is the function of platelets?

To plug holes in vessels and stop bleeding.

What percentage of blood is red blood cells (RBCs)?

45%.

What is the function of red blood cells?

Transport oxygen; RBCs are living cells.

Who are neutrophils?

First responders to injury (a type of white blood cell).

Which organ synthesizes about 7% of plasma proteins?

Hepatocytes (liver).

What percentage of plasma proteins does albumin comprise?

About 54% of all plasma proteins.

What is the role of albumin in blood?

Maintains blood osmotic pressure by keeping water in the blood.

What does viscous mean in the context of blood?

Thick or sticky; describes a thicker fluid.

What does hematocrit measure?

The percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells; used to determine RBC count.

What is anemia?

Very low red blood cell count or abnormally low hematocrit.

What is polycythemia?

Abnormally high hematocrit; high red blood cell count.

What is osmotic pressure in blood?

Pressure that keeps water inside blood vessels and prevents leakage.

Where does water move when it is not retained in vessels?

Water moves from blood vessels into surrounding tissues.

What keeps water inside blood vessels?

Albumin and other plasma proteins contribute to osmotic pressure to keep water in vessels.