AP Lab: Blood – Red Blood Cells

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to red blood cells, hematocrit, and hemoglobin as discussed in the AP Lab.

Erythrocyte

Another name for red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

Hematocrit

The percentage of blood volume that is made up of formed elements, primarily red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds to and transports oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Buffy Coat

The layer in centrifuged blood that contains white blood cells and platelets.

Hemocytometer

A specialized microscope slide used for counting red blood cells in a diluted blood sample.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, leading to low energy levels.

Polycythemia

A condition in which there is an increased level of red blood cells, potentially affecting blood pressure.

Biconcave shape

The shape of red blood cells that increases surface area for gas exchange and allows flexibility.

Blood doping

The practice of increasing red blood cell count to enhance athletic performance, which can be dangerous.

Centrifugation

A process used to separate the components of blood by spinning it at high speed.