Function Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is a major function of red blood cells (RBCs)?
To transport hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues.
In what form does hemoglobin circulate in some animals?
As free protein in the circulatory fluids.
What percentage of hemoglobin leaks through the capillary membrane in humans?
About 3%.
What enzyme do red blood cells contain that catalyzes the reaction between carbon dioxide and water?
Carbonic anhydrase.
What is formed when carbon dioxide and water react in the presence of carbonic anhydrase?
Carbonic acid (H₂CO₃).
How does the presence of carbonic anhydrase affect the transport of carbon dioxide in blood?
Increases the rate of the reaction several thousandfold.
What form does carbon dioxide take when transported from tissues to the lungs?
Bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻).
What is a function of hemoglobin in red blood cells besides oxygen transport?
Acting as an acid-base buffer.
What is the mean diameter of normal red blood cells?
About 7.8 micrometers.
What is the thickness of normal red blood cells at their thickest point?
2.5 micrometers.
What is the average volume of a red blood cell?
90 to 95 cubic micrometers.
What unique ability do red blood cells have when passing through capillaries?
They can change shape remarkably.
True or False: Red blood cells have a fixed shape and cannot deform.
False.
