Anatomy and Physiology (Composition of Blood)

Blood

Composition of blood:

Red blood cells (RBC)

White blood cells (WBC)

Plasma

Platelets

RBCs– (Erythrocytes) are produced in bone marrow.  Contain hemoglobin (a complex iron protein) which give blood it’s red color.  Carries oxygen to body cells.

WBCs (Leukocytes) destroy disease-causing germs.

Platelets (thrombocytes) contribute to the blood-clotting process (stops bleeding)

Plasma– the fluid part of blood in which RBCs, WBCs and platelets flow.  Carries nutrients to cells and carries waste products away from cells (carbon dioxide).  Contains sugars, proteins and oxygen.

Tags: Anatomy, Blood, Physiology