Question

Granulocytes are which type of cell? a. lymphocyte b. erythrocyte c. megakaryocyte d. leukocyte

Short answer

d. leukocyte

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The question is asking which type of cell granulocytes are. There are four options provided: lymphocyte, erythrocyte, megakaryocyte, and leukocyte.

Define Each Option

To determine the correct answer, first define each cell type:- Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system.- Erythrocyte: Another term for red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen.- Megakaryocyte: A large bone marrow cell responsible for the production of platelets.- Leukocyte: A general term for white blood cells, including granulocytes.

Identify the Role of Granulocytes

Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell filled with microscopic granules. These granules contain enzymes that can digest microorganisms and play a role in the immune system.

Match with the Correct Option

From the definitions, granulocytes fit under the category of leukocytes because they are a type of white blood cell. Therefore, the correct answer is leukocyte.

Key concepts

Lymphocyte

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell, crucial to the immune system. They primarily recognize and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. There are two main types of lymphocytes:

• B cells: They produce antibodies, which are proteins that can attach to and destroy pathogens.
• T cells: They destroy infected cells and help activate other immune cells.

These cells are mostly found in lymphoid tissues, like lymph nodes and the spleen. Without lymphocytes, our bodies would struggle to combat infections effectively.

Erythrocyte

Erythrocytes, commonly known as red blood cells, play a crucial role in transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

• Structure: Erythrocytes are biconcave discs, which provides a large surface area for gas exchange.
• Hemoglobin: They contain a protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen and enables its transport.
• Lifespan: Erythrocytes typically live for about 120 days before being recycled by the spleen.

These cells are essential for cellular respiration and energy production in body tissues.

Megakaryocyte

Megakaryocytes are large bone marrow cells responsible for producing platelets, which are critical for blood clotting.

• Size and Structure: These cells are significantly larger than most other blood cells.
• Platelet Production: They release small, cytoplasmic fragments called platelets into the bloodstream.
• Function: Platelets, once released, help in forming blood clots to prevent excessive bleeding.

Without megakaryocytes, the body would have difficulty stopping bleeding when injuries occur.

Leukocyte

Leukocytes, or white blood cells, are the defenders of our immune system. There are several types with unique functions.

• Granulocytes: These include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, recognized by their granular appearance.
• Agranulocytes: Lymphocytes and monocytes fall into this category, lacking granules.

Granulocytes, the type in question, are filled with granules containing enzymes to digest invading microorganisms. They are quick responders during an infection.
Leukocytes, overall, protect the body by identifying and destroying pathogens, making them crucial for maintaining health and immunity.