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Difference Between RBCs and WBCs

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Understand the Difference between RBCs and WBCs along with their Uses

RBCs (Red Blood Cells) and WBCs (White Blood Cells) are two main types of blood cells. RBCs carry oxygen to the body, while WBCs fight infections. RBCs contain haemoglobin and give blood its red colour. WBCs are part of the immune system and help protect against diseases. The key differences between RBCs and WBCs are in function, structure, and lifespan. RBCs live longer and are more in number, while WBCs have fewer and different types to fight infections.


Difference Between RBC and WBC in Tabular Form

Feature

RBCs (Red Blood Cells)

WBCs (White Blood Cells)

Also Called

Erythrocytes

Leukocytes

Shape

Round, biconcave disc

Irregular

Size

6-8 µm in diameter

12-17 µm in diameter

Lifespan

Around 120 days

Around 12-20 days

Nucleus

No nucleus when mature

Has a nucleus

Colour

Red (due to haemoglobin)

Colorless

Types

Only one type

Different types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, etc.)

Function

Carries oxygen

Fights infections

Production Site

Red bone marrow

Bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen

Main Component

Haemoglobin

Antibodies and immune markers

Percentage in Blood

36-50% of blood

Around 1% of blood

Normal Count

About 5 million per mm³ of blood

About 7,000-8,000 per mm³ of blood

Formation Process

Erythropoiesis

Leukopoiesis

Movement

Stays in blood vessels

Moves between blood and lymph systems

Low Count Effect

This can lead to anaemia

This can lead to weak immunity (leukopenia)


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FAQs on Difference Between RBCs and WBCs

1. What is the difference between WBCs and RBCs?

RBCs carry oxygen in the blood, while WBCs fight infections. RBCs are more in number and have haemoglobin, whereas WBCs are fewer and work in immunity.

2. What are the differences between RBCs, WBCs, and platelets?

RBCs carry oxygen, WBCs fight infections, and platelets help in blood clotting. RBCs are the most in number, while platelets and WBCs are fewer.

3. What are the differences between RBC and WBC counting chambers?

RBC counting chambers have a different depth and design to count millions of cells. WBC counting chambers are designed for fewer cells and may need dilution.

4. What is the significance of RBCs and WBCs in urine?

RBCs in urine may mean bleeding or kidney issues, while WBCs in urine could mean infection. Both can indicate health problems that need checking.

5. What are RBCs better known as, and what WBCs are better known as?

RBCs are also called erythrocytes, while WBCs are called leukocytes. These are their scientific names.

6. Why do RBCs have no nucleus but WBCs do?

RBCs lose their nucleus to carry more oxygen, making them efficient transporters. WBCs need a nucleus to fight infections and create immunity responses.

7. Why are WBCs fewer in number than RBCs?

The body needs more RBCs to transport oxygen all the time. WBCs increase only when needed, like during infections.

8. How does the body maintain a balance between RBCs and WBCs?

The bone marrow constantly makes new RBCs and WBCs. If the body needs more, like during infection, WBC production increases.

9. What happens if RBCs or WBCs are too high or too low?

Too few RBCs can cause anaemia, making you feel weak. Too few WBCs can weaken immunity. High WBCs may mean infection, while high RBCs may mean oxygen issues.

10. How can I naturally maintain healthy RBC and WBC levels?

Eat iron-rich foods for RBCs and vitamin-rich foods for WBCs. Staying active, drinking water, and avoiding infections also help keep blood cells healthy.