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Which is not a function of the lymphatic system?

a) Absorbs dietary fat for nutrients
b) Preserves fluid homeostasis
c) Removes dead red blood cells
d) Helps the immune system fight diseases

User Kem Mason
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The function that is not part of the lymphatic system is (c) Removes dead red blood cells, as this task is managed by the spleen and not the lymphatic vessels, whose primary focus lies in maintaining fluid balance, immune responses, and nutrient absorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lymphatic system has various important functions, including the absorption of dietary fat, maintaining fluid homeostasis, and aiding the immune system in fighting diseases. However, it does not remove dead red blood cells, which is primarily the function of the spleen within the reticuloendothelial system. Thus, the correct answer to the question of which is not a function of the lymphatic system is:

(c) Removes dead red blood cells

The lymphatic system's roles include transporting various white blood cells, such as those produced by lymphatic tissue, and immunoglobulins (antibodies) throughout the body to maintain health. Additionally, it carries excess tissue fluid not reabsorbed by the vascular capillaries back to the lymphatic system for processing and plays a role in absorbing nutrients from the digestive system, specifically fatty acids from digested lipids, through lymphatic vessels called lacteals.

User Jkt
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