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
Answered by Norbert B. Biology tutor

15154 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is the structure of alveoli in the lungs optimised for gas exchange?


What are the different levels of protein structure and what do they entail?


Describe how the RER is involved in the production of enzymes. [2 marks] June 2014


DNA contains the information that an organism needs to survive. How is this information read and transformed into funcional products?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning