Red blood cells (RBCs) are quite small, with a diameter of only 6 µm. This tiny size allows them to squeeze through the body's smallest blood vessels.
Red Blood Cell Size
| Cell Type | Diameter (µm) |
|---|---|
| Red Blood Cells (RBCs) | 6 |
Key Facts About Red Blood Cells:
- Small Size: As noted, RBCs are only 6 micrometers (µm) in diameter. This is incredibly small, about 1/10th the width of a human hair.
- Flexibility: Their small size and unique shape allow them to easily move through narrow capillaries.
- Lifespan: RBCs circulate for up to 120 days before being removed from the body.
- Removal: Specialized cells, called macrophages, in the spleen and liver remove old or damaged RBCs.
The small size of red blood cells is essential for their function, allowing them to efficiently transport oxygen throughout the body. While other types of blood cells exist, the question focused on their size, specifically RBCs, based on the reference material.
