Final answer:
The shape of red blood cells increases the surface area-to-volume ratio, which maximizes the diffusion of gases, aided by the protein hemoglobin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are biconcave disks, which means they are shaped with a central dimple on both sides. This unique form increases the surface area-to-volume ratio of the cell, which is critical for maximizing the diffusion of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. Red blood cells contain about 250 million molecules of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen and gives these cells their distinctive red color. The biconcave shape not only optimizes gas exchange but also allows red blood cells to deform and pass through extremely narrow blood vessels in the capillary beds, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen throughout the body.
Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are biconcave disks, which means they are plump at the edges and thin in the center. This unique shape increases the surface area-to-volume ratio of the cell, allowing for more efficient diffusion of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. The biconcave shape also enables the red blood cells to fold up and squeeze through narrow blood vessels, maximizing their ability to transport gases throughout the body.