Hi,

For my biology homework, I need to know some things about:
red blood cells
white blood cells (both types)
platelets
and I still cant find some info-
-where they are made
-length of life of cell

Thanks!
Jessica

http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/blood.html

Hi Jessica! I'd be happy to provide you with some information about red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are the most abundant cells in our blood. Their primary function is to carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and to transport carbon dioxide back to the lungs, where it is exhaled. Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which gives them their red color and helps bind oxygen.

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in our immune system. There are two main types of white blood cells: granulocytes and agranulocytes.

- Granulocytes: There are three types of granulocytes - neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Neutrophils are the most common and are responsible for fighting bacterial infections. Eosinophils are involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections. Basophils release chemicals like histamine, which are involved in allergic responses.

- Agranulocytes: There are two types of agranulocytes - lymphocytes and monocytes. Lymphocytes, including T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells, play a role in specific immune responses, such as targeting viruses and bacteria. Monocytes are the largest of white blood cells and can differentiate into macrophages, which engulf and destroy pathogens.

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are not really cells but rather fragments of cells. They help in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. Platelets release clotting factors and form a plug at the site of injury, which initiates the clotting process.

Now, to answer your additional questions:

1. Where are they made?
All blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, which is the spongy tissue found inside our bones. Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are continuously generated in the bone marrow to replace old or damaged cells.

2. Length of life of cell:
The lifespan of different types of blood cells varies:

- Red blood cells typically live for about 120 days.
- Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, have a short lifespan of just a few hours to a few days.
- Lymphocytes, another type of white blood cell, can live for days, weeks, or even months.
- Platelets have the shortest lifespan, lasting only about 7-10 days.

I hope this information helps you with your biology homework! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.