Question

Given below is a diagram of a human blood smear.

Study the diagram and answer the questions that follow:

a) Name the components numbered ‘1’ to ‘4’

b) Mention two structural differences between the parts ‘1’ and ‘2’.

c) Name the soluble protein found in part ‘4’ which forms insoluble threads during clotting of blood.

d) What is the average lifespan of the component numbered ‘1’ ?

e) Component numbered ‘1’ do not have certain organelles but are very efficient in their function. Explain

Answer 1

a) 

1. RBC
2. Neutrophil
3. Blood platelets
4. Blood plasma

b)

RBC	Neutrophil
Biconcave, disc-shaped	Amoeboid
Do not have nucleus	Have 3-5 lobbed nucleus

c) Fibrinogen

d) 120 days

e) RBCs do not have a nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. They are very efficient in carrying nutrients like glucose (which they cannot use, due to lack of mitochondria), can easily pass through the capillaries (lack of endoplasmic reticulum - endoskeleton)