Question

Describe erythrocyte (RBC) in short.

Answer 1

i. Erythrocyte is also known as red blood cells. They are a major component of blood.
ii. RBCs are circular, disc-shaped and biconcave. The presence of haemoglobin in RBCs gives the cells their characteristic red colour.
iii. Mature RBCs lack a nucleus and thus, cannot divide as they do not contain anygenetic material.
iv. Erythrocytes in humans are produced in the bone marrow and the average life span of an RBC in a healthy individual is about 120 days.
v. Worn out RBCs are destroyed in the liver and the spleen.
vi. They contain haemoglobin and helps in gaseous exchange.