Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the Algonquin College Health Program Assessment with our comprehensive exam review. Practice with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and detailed explanations to enhance your preparation and improve your success rate!

Practice this question and more.


Which type of blood cell is primarily responsible for the transport of oxygen?

  1. Platelets

  2. White blood cells

  3. Red blood cells

  4. Plasma cells

The correct answer is: Red blood cells

Red blood cells are primarily responsible for the transport of oxygen throughout the body. These cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules in the lungs and facilitates their transport to tissues and organs. Once the red blood cells reach the tissues, hemoglobin releases the oxygen, providing the necessary support for cellular respiration. The unique structure of red blood cells, which are biconcave in shape, allows for a larger surface area to volume ratio, enhancing their ability to absorb and release oxygen efficiently. This characteristic, combined with their high concentration in the bloodstream, makes red blood cells crucial for maintaining oxygen levels necessary for the body’s metabolic processes. Other types of blood cells, such as platelets and white blood cells, serve different purposes. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and wound healing, while white blood cells are part of the immune system, defending the body against infections. Plasma cells are specialized white blood cells that produce antibodies. Therefore, they do not play a role in oxygen transport. Thus, red blood cells are the clear answer regarding the transport of oxygen in the body.