Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780323354097
Author: Sue E. Huether RN PhD, Kathryn L. McCance RN PhD
Publisher: Elsevier Science
Question
Book Icon
Chapter 20.1, Problem 1QC
Summary Introduction

To explain: The unique properties of erythrocyte’s shape.

Concept introduction: Erythrocytes (Red blood cells-RBC) are involved in the transport of oxygen to the cells. The cytoplasm of RBC is rich in the hemoglobin. The prefix heme- is the iron-containing pigment and globin is the protein part.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark

Explanation of Solution

Erythrocytes are responsible for the oxygenation of tissues. Erythrocytes contain a distinctive protein called hemoglobin that carries gases and electrolytes through the plasma membrane of the cell. In the human, the mature erythrocytes lack a nucleus and cytoplasmic organelles like mitochondria. The size and shape of the erythrocyte are unique as it is well-suited to its function. Its main function is a gaseous exchange. Erythrocytes are small and disk-shaped. The unique properties of the erythrocyte’s shape are as follows:

  • A biconcave shape
  • Cell deformity
  • Stability

A biconcave shape provides an extra surface area or the volume ratio that allows the change of in the shape without increasing the surface area of the erythrocytes. It optimizes the gaseous diffusion and flow of blood in the large vessels. The deformability of erythrocytes is its ability to change the shape under the stress conditions. They change its shape under the influence of mechanical forces that can pass through a microcirculation. Thus, it promotes the mechanical stability of erythrocytes especially when they are passed through the capillary network.

Want to see more full solutions like this?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Students have asked these similar questions
What is the average amount of calories that you consumed in the form of protein? If your program uses grams be sure to multiply by 4Kcals/gram. If your program uses percentages state the average percentage of calories consumed from protein. Are you consuming the adequate range of protein according to the AMDR? List your protein rich food items for all days into two groups; Animal protein foods (dairy/meat/eggs) Plant protein (grains/legumes/nuts & seeds) Should you alter your intake of plant to animal protein? If you altered your intake of the above protein rich foods what effect would this have on the saturated or total fat content of your diet? Be specific.
What is the average amount of calories that you consumed in the form of carbohydrates? If your program uses grams be sure to multiply by 4Kcals/gram. If your program uses percentages state the average percentage of calories consumed from carbohydrates. Are you consuming the adequate range of carbohydrates according to the AMDR? (a.) LIST your carbohydrate rich foods (10 grams or more) from each day in your food record. (b.) Which contributes most to your CHO intake, starch or sugar? What is the average number of grams of dietary fiber you ate? What are your two major sources of fiber in your diet? What is the Adequate Intake (AI) for the recommended amount of fiber to be consumed daily (refer to your textbook)? Should you be eating more fiber? If you need to eat more, what specific fiber rich foods could you include in your diet? (List only fiber rich foods that you are willing to eat, have time to prepare, and can afford, or are otherwise available to you). Fat What is the…
ecological adaptation
Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Similar questions
SEE MORE QUESTIONS
Recommended textbooks for you
Text book image
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:PEARSON
Text book image
Biology 2e
Biology
ISBN:9781947172517
Author:Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi, Mary Ann Clark
Publisher:OpenStax
Text book image
Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781259398629
Author:McKinley, Michael P., O'loughlin, Valerie Dean, Bidle, Theresa Stouter
Publisher:Mcgraw Hill Education,
Text book image
Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780815344322
Author:Bruce Alberts, Alexander D. Johnson, Julian Lewis, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company
Text book image
Laboratory Manual For Human Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781260159363
Author:Martin, Terry R., Prentice-craver, Cynthia
Publisher:McGraw-Hill Publishing Co.
Text book image
Inquiry Into Life (16th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9781260231700
Author:Sylvia S. Mader, Michael Windelspecht
Publisher:McGraw Hill Education