ANATOMY OF A RED BLOOD CELL

Red blood cells (RBCs) are disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. The cell wall of the RBC is a protein mesh that gives the RBC its flexibility, allowing the cell to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network.

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