Question

Shape of \(\mathrm{RBC}\) in mammal is (a) Oval (b) Biconvex (c) Biconcave (d) Flattened

Short answer

The shape of Red Blood Cells (RBC) in mammals is biconcave.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Shape of Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Red Blood Cells in mammals have a particular shape that is unique and designed for their functions. To identify the correct shape, recall what you have learned in biology about the shape of mammalian RBCs.

Compare with Possible Answers

With the recalled knowledge about the shape of mammalian red blood cells, compare it with the shapes provided in the options: Oval, Biconvex, Biconcave, and Flattened.

Select the Correct Answer

Red Blood Cells (RBCs) in mammals are biconcave, allowing them to maximize their surface area for oxygen carry. So, the correct answer is: Biconcave.

Key concepts

Red Blood Cells

One of the most intriguing components of human biology is the red blood cell (RBC), also known as erythrocytes. These tiny, yet vital cells have the primary function of transporting oxygen from the lungs to various tissues in the body and transporting carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. Their distinct biconcave shape—a round disk that is concave on both sides—plays a pivotal role in this function. This unique design creates a larger surface area relative to the cell's volume, enhancing the efficiency of gas exchange. Additionally, this shape allows RBCs to bend and flex as they navigate through the narrow passages of the body's capillary networks.

Erythrocytes lack a nucleus and most organelles, which affords them additional space to carry oxygen-rich hemoglobin. The absence of a nucleus is an evolutionary advantage because it allows more hemoglobin to be present inside the RBC, thus increasing its oxygen-carrying capacity. Furthermore, the flexible membrane contributes to the cell's ability to squeeze through small capillaries without rupturing—a critical aspect for maintaining a healthy and functional circulatory system.

Biology NEET Exam

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a competitive examination for students aspiring to enter medical and dental undergraduate programs in India. It's an essential step for those aiming to build a career in medicine or dentistry. The biology section of the NEET exam covers a wide array of topics, from fundamental cellular processes to complex physiological systems in organisms. For aspirants, understanding the intricacies of RBC structure and function—considering the aforementioned biconcave shape and lack of a nucleus—can be critical for answering related questions correctly.

When preparing for NEET, it is crucial for students to delve deeply into the topic of RBCs, not only memorizing their shape but also comprehending the reasons behind their design and their role in the body. Additionally, students should be able to apply this knowledge to other related concepts in hematology and physiology, which will enable them to tackle multiple questions across the exam. Comprehensive study materials, repeated practice, and a clear strategy will all assist NEET candidates in mastering the biology section and achieving their goal of a career in healthcare.

Cellular Function

Cellular function is the collection of tasks and processes that a cell carries out to sustain life. This can range from the synthesis of biomolecules, to growth and replication, to the specialized functions carried out by different types of cells. An understanding of cellular function allows us to comprehend how organisms grow, develop, and maintain their vital processes.

The functionality of a cell is deeply intertwined with its structure. For instance, the biconcave shape of RBCs directly supports their function of gas transport and exchange. Such specialized cells showcase how structure and function are harmonized in biology to fulfill precise roles. These functions are underpinned by biochemical reactions and interactions that occur within the cell's specific structural confines, making the study of both cellular anatomy and physiology indispensable in the field of biology. For medical students or biology enthusiasts, grasping the correlation between a cell's design and its job, such as why RBCs are specifically biconcave, lays the foundation for advanced study in medicine, biotechnology, and related fields.