Red blood cells (RBCs) are really important for carrying oxygen all around our bodies. Here’s how they work:
Hemoglobin Binding: Inside each RBC, there’s a special protein called hemoglobin. This protein can grab onto four oxygen molecules. When we breathe in, oxygen moves into our blood and sticks to hemoglobin. This combination is called oxyhemoglobin.
Oxygen Release: In parts of our body where there isn’t much oxygen, hemoglobin lets go of the oxygen. This is super important because our cells need oxygen to create energy.
Carbon Dioxide Transport: RBCs also help move carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Carbon dioxide is a waste product that our bodies need to get rid of. Once it’s in the lungs, we can exhale it out. This helps keep the right balance of gases in our body.
All of this teamwork makes sure we can stay active and full of energy!
Red blood cells (RBCs) are really important for carrying oxygen all around our bodies. Here’s how they work:
Hemoglobin Binding: Inside each RBC, there’s a special protein called hemoglobin. This protein can grab onto four oxygen molecules. When we breathe in, oxygen moves into our blood and sticks to hemoglobin. This combination is called oxyhemoglobin.
Oxygen Release: In parts of our body where there isn’t much oxygen, hemoglobin lets go of the oxygen. This is super important because our cells need oxygen to create energy.
Carbon Dioxide Transport: RBCs also help move carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Carbon dioxide is a waste product that our bodies need to get rid of. Once it’s in the lungs, we can exhale it out. This helps keep the right balance of gases in our body.
All of this teamwork makes sure we can stay active and full of energy!