Final answer:
The average life-span of an erythrocyte is truly around 120 days. They function to transport oxygen throughout the body and are recycled by macrophages after their lifespan.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the average life-span of an erythrocyte is approximately 120 days is true. Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Once reticulocytes are released into the bloodstream, they mature into erythrocytes.
These mature red blood cells circulate for about 120 days before being removed and recycled by macrophages, which are a type of phagocytic white blood cell found primarily within the bone marrow, liver, and spleen. The lack of a nucleus or other organelles within mature erythrocytes allows them to carry a significant amount of hemoglobin, facilitating the transfer of oxygen to various tissues.
After their lifespan, erythrocytes are broken down, and their components, including hemoglobin, are processed and reused by the body.
True. The average life-span of an erythrocyte, also known as a red blood cell, is indeed approximately 120 days. These cells circulate in the bloodstream and play a crucial role in carrying oxygen to the tissues. After 120 days, they are removed by macrophages in the bone marrow, liver, and spleen, and their components are further processed.