How is the structure of a red blood adapted to its function?

  1. Red blood cells are shaped like a biconcave disc - increases SA:volume ration -> increase surface for oxygen to diffuse in and out of cell

  2. Red blood cells are very small - 7um, compared with 40um average cell -> allows them to fit through capillaries, haemoglobin molecules close to surface -> quick oxygen exchange

  3. Red blood cells are flexible - able to deform to pass through very tight vessels

  4. Red blood cells have no nucleus/mitochodria/ER - more room for haemoglobin -> maximising oxygen carrying capacity

NB

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the limiting factors of Photosynthsis


What are the four bases found in DNA and how do they bond.


Describe the process of atherosclerosis and the effect it has on the properties of the blood vessel


Describe DNA replication. Is this process conservative?