Question
Explain how red blood cells are adapted for their function of transporting oxygen around the body.
[4 marks]
Mark scheme — B1 per adaptation with explanation (up to B4):
- Biconcave disc shape → large surface area relative to volume → more oxygen can be absorbed per cell (B1+B1).
- No nucleus → more space in the cell for haemoglobin molecules → carries more oxygen (B1+B1).
- Haemoglobin protein → binds oxygen easily at high concentrations (lungs) and releases it at low concentrations (tissues) (B1+B1).
- Flexible cell membrane → can squeeze through narrow capillaries to deliver oxygen throughout the body (B1). Award any 4.
Total: 4 marks.
4 marks · take your time before peeking.
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Generated by TopMyGrade AI · cross-check official sources before relying on the mark-scheme phrasing.