Some typical human red blood cells are shown below - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 5 - 2019
Question 5
Some typical human red blood cells are shown below. They are disc shaped.
(a) What word is used to describe the shape of the two faces of these cells?
(b) Red bl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Some typical human red blood cells are shown below - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 5 - 2019
Step 1
What word is used to describe the shape of the two faces of these cells?
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Answer
The shape of the two faces of red blood cells is described as biconcave. This design allows for a larger surface area for gas exchange.
Step 2
What feature of red blood cells allows them to pass through the narrow capillaries?
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Answer
The feature that allows red blood cells to pass through narrow capillaries is their flexibility. This flexibility enables them to deform and fit through smaller spaces.
Step 3
Name the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
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Answer
The molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen is hemoglobin.
Step 4
Give a reason for this, based on the composition of these cells.
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Answer
Human red blood cells live for about 120 days primarily because they lack a nucleus and do not contain mitochondria. This absence of organelles means they cannot reproduce or repair themselves, leading to a limited lifespan.
Step 5
Give a location in the body where red blood cells are: 1. Produced.
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Answer
Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow.
Step 6
Give a location in the body where red blood cells are: 2. Usually broken down.
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Red blood cells are usually broken down in the liver or spleen.
Step 7
Name the transport fluid in humans that does not contain red blood cells.
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Answer
The transport fluid in humans that does not contain red blood cells is lymph.
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