Which term describes the cells that carry oxygen throughout the body?

Which term describes the cells that carry oxygen throughout the body?

• A. Leukocytes
• B. Thrombocytes
• C. Erythrocytes
• D. Plasma

Answer: (C)

Oxygen transport in the blood is carried by erythrocytes, the red blood cells. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it to tissues throughout the body. This specialized role makes erythrocytes ideal for moving oxygen. Leukocytes, the white blood cells, are involved in immune defense. Thrombocytes, or platelets, help with blood clotting. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries nutrients, hormones, and waste, but it does not transport oxygen itself. So, the cells that carry oxygen are erythrocytes.

Oxygen transport in the blood is carried by erythrocytes, the red blood cells. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it to tissues throughout the body. This specialized role makes erythrocytes ideal for moving oxygen. Leukocytes, the white blood cells, are involved in immune defense. Thrombocytes, or platelets, help with blood clotting. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries nutrients, hormones, and waste, but it does not transport oxygen itself. So, the cells that carry oxygen are erythrocytes.