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Describe the composition of plasma in blood.
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Plasma makes up 55% of blood, consisting of 91.5% water, 7% proteins (like albumin, globulins, fibrinogen), and 1.5% solutes (electrolytes, nutrients, gases, hormones, waste).
How do platelets contribute to blood clotting?
Platelets form platelet plugs and facilitate the formation of blood clots, preventing blood loss and aiding in wound repair.
Explain how oral health is linked to cardiovascular conditions.
Poor oral health can lead to cardiovascular conditions, as bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause issues like endocarditis.
How can elevation affect the count of red blood cells?
At higher elevations, the body may produce more red blood cells to compensate for lower oxygen levels, ensuring sufficient oxygen delivery to tissues.
In what way does cardiovascular exercise affect blood volume?
Cardiovascular exercise increases blood volume by expanding plasma volume and increasing the number of red blood cells.
Explain the process of hematopoiesis.
Hematopoiesis is the process by which blood cells are produced in the red bone marrow, including erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes.
What mechanisms do red blood cells use for efficient gas exchange?
Red blood cells use their bioconcave shape for increased surface area and lack a nucleus to maximize space for hemoglobin, facilitating efficient gas exchange.
Identify the solutes present in plasma and their purposes.
Solutes in plasma include electrolytes (maintain osmotic balance), nutrients (supply energy), gases (for respiration), hormones (regulate processes), and waste products (excretion).
What factors determine the color of blood?
Blood's color is determined by its oxygenation level: bright red when oxygenated, and dark red or purplish when deoxygenated.
Why is blood considered a connective tissue?
Blood is a liquid connective tissue because it consists of cells suspended in plasma, an extracellular matrix that supports transportation functions.
How does blood contribute to the regulation of homeostasis in the body?
Blood maintains homeostasis by regulating pH levels, thermal balance (through sweating), and osmotic pressure, thereby influencing water content in cells.
Identify and describe two different types of anemia.
Iron deficiency anemia arises when there's insufficient iron, affecting hemoglobin production. Vitamin B12/Folate deficiency anemia occurs due to inadequate B12/folate, leading to reduced red blood cell formation.
Discuss how blood’s viscosity affects its function.
Blood's viscosity, which is denser and more viscous than water, allows it to effectively transport cells and nutrients while also impacting flow dynamics.
What role does hemoglobin play in the functioning of red blood cells?
Hemoglobin in red blood cells carries oxygen to tissues and returns carbon dioxide to be exhaled. Each hemoglobin molecule can transport four oxygen molecules.
What are the primary functions of white blood cells (leukocytes)?
White blood cells protect the body against infections and foreign invaders, with different types specialized in combating bacteria, viruses, and handling allergies.
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