MCAT Biology Question 91: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 91

1. Which of the following is a FALSE statement regarding erythrocytes?

  • A. Erythrocytes contain hemoglobin.
  • B. Erythrocytes are anaerobic.
  • C. The nuclei of erythrocytes are located in the middle of the biconcave disc.
  • D. Erythrocytes are phagocytized in the spleen and liver after a certain period of time.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are produced in the red bone marrow and circulate in the blood for about 120 days, after which they are phagocytized in the spleen and the liver, eliminating choice (D). Red blood cells have a disk-like shape and lose their membranous organelles (like mitochondria and nuclei) during maturation. This makes choice (C) the correct answer. Erythrocytes are filled with hemoglobin; their lack of mitochondria makes their metabolism solely anaerobic, eliminating choices (A) and (B).

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