How are red blood cells adapted for transport of oxygen?

Red blood cells are highly adapted to be efficient at absorbing and storing oxygen to carry around the body to be used for aerobic respiration. There are three main adaptations;Biconcave shape - this maximises the surface area for oxygen absorption Thin cell membranes - so that oxygen diffuses quickly and can reach the centre of the cell efficiently No nucleus - to maximise space in the cell for haemoglobin

AC
Answered by Amy C. Biology tutor

4019 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why would the mass of a piece of potato change when it is placed in different sugar solutions?


Describe the process of osmosis


Describe how a nerve impulse travels from neurone A to neurone B.


Explain the differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration (in animals), when the transition occurs and why there is a need for the body to remove lactic acid that is built up during the process?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning