Question

Discuss the transport of gases in the blood

Answer 1

The two major gases carried by the blood are O₂ and CO₂. Almost all the O₂ is transported by erythrocytes. Erythrocytes are anucleate biconcave discs that have the smooth shape and elasticity necessary to squeeze through the capillaries. Without a nucleus, there is space for more hemoglobin, which is the actual carrier of the oxygen. The concave surfaces on both sides of an individual erythrocyte increases the total surface area available for oxygen exchange. Since oxygen is not very soluble, very little oxygen is transported directly dissolved in the plasma.