Sure, blood consists of formed elements, which include:
1. **Red Blood Cells (RBCs)**:
- Type: Erythrocytes
- Function: Transport oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carry carbon dioxide from
the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation.
2. **White Blood Cells (WBCs)**:
- Type: Leukocytes
- Function: Part of the immune system, they defend the body against infectious diseases and
foreign invaders. There are several types of white blood cells, including:
- Neutrophils: Phagocytize bacteria and other pathogens.
- Lymphocytes: Include B cells, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells involved in adaptive and
innate immunity.
- Monocytes: Precursors to macrophages, involved in phagocytosis and antigen presentation.
- Eosinophils: Combat parasitic infections and modulate allergic responses.
- Basophils: Release histamine and other chemicals involved in inflammatory responses and
allergic reactions.
3. **Platelets**:
- Type: Thrombocytes
- Function: Essential for blood clotting (coagulation). They help in the formation of blood clots
to prevent excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is injured.
These formed elements work together to maintain homeostasis and protect the body from
various threats.
The flow of blood from the heart is a vital process that ensures the delivery of oxygen and
nutrients to all tissues of the body while removing metabolic waste products. Here's an
overview of the blood flow from the heart:
1. **Deoxygenated Blood Flow**:
a. **Right Atrium**: Deoxygenated blood returns to the heart through the superior and
inferior vena cavae, emptying into the right atrium.
b. **Tricuspid Valve**: The right atrium contracts, pushing blood through the tricuspid valve
into the right ventricle.
c. **Right Ventricle**: The right ventricle contracts, pumping deoxygenated blood through
the pulmonary valve into the pulmonary artery.
d. **Pulmonary Artery**: The pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood to the lungs,
where it picks up oxygen and releases carbon dioxide through the process of gas exchange.