What is the purpose of red blood cells?

The purpose of red blood cells is primarily to carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and organs throughout the body. This is accomplished through a protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen molecules. By delivering oxygen, red blood cells play a crucial role in cellular respiration, providing the energy necessary for cells to function properly.

Although other components of blood, such as white blood cells, are responsible for fighting off infections, red blood cells' specific function centers on oxygen transport. Additionally, nutrients are transported via plasma and not directly by red blood cells, while blood clotting is managed by platelets and plasma proteins, again separate from the role of red blood cells. This clarity helps delineate the unique responsibilities of each component in the circulatory system.