Chapter 19, Problem 1CP

List five major functions of blood.

Summary Introduction

To enlist:

The major functions of the blood.

Introduction:

The blood is a connective tissue that contains many cells, which help in the providing the immune system. These include the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Explanation of Solution

The blood is a specific connective tissue and its various functions are well described as below:

• The circulation of gases, metabolites and nutrients in the blood vessels to the various organs. The blood is composed of red blood cells, which transfer oxygen to the lungs and other organs for the metabolic functioning of the cell. The metabolic substrates like sugar, hormones and others are transported to the various organs so that the various metabolic and cellular functioning of the cell occurs efficiently.
• The regulation and maintenance of pH and the ion composition of the interstitial fluids. The ions diffuse between the blood and the interstitial system through a network of capillaries. The pH is regulated by the buffering action of the hydrogen ions and the carbonate ions in the red blood cells.
• It contains the anti-clogging factors like fibrin, thrombin which activate the process of the blood coagulation.
• The white blood cells, phagocytes, macrophages reach the site of the injury or inflammation through the network of blood capillaries. The antibodies and proteins like albumin are transported in the blood.
• The various blood cells participate in the process of fighting against the pathogens and antigens.
• The heat generated is absorbed by the various tissues for the regulation of the body temperature. Hence, blood also helps in maintaining constant body temperature.