Blood

Question 1

What is blood?

Answer 1

A tissue consisting of plasma, in which the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are suspended.

Question 2

What is the function of red blood cells and how are they adapted to carry out their function?

Answer 2

Carry oxygen from lungs to all the cells in the body.

• Their shape gives them a large surface area for absorbing oxygen.
• Contain haemoglobin (red substance) that allows them to carry oxygen.
• Don’t have a nucleus for more space to carry oxygen.

Question 3

What is the function of white blood cells and how are they adapted to carry out their function?

Answer 3

Part of our immune system.

• Some change shape to engulf unwanted microorganisms,
• Others produce antibodies and antitoxins to defend against microorganisms.
• Do have a nucleus.

Question 4

What is the function of platelets and how are they adapted to carry out their function?

Answer 4

Small fragments of cells - no nucleus.

• Help the blood to clot at a wound to stop the blood from pouring out.
• Stops microorganisms from getting in.

Question 5

What is the function of plasma and how are they adapted to carry out their function?

Answer 5

Pale straw-coloured liquid that carries:

• Red and white blood cells and platelets.
• Food molecules (e.g. glucose + amino acids)
• Waste products (e.g. CO2 + urea)
• Hormones
• Proteins