What is another name for red blood cells?

Red blood cells are scientifically known as erythrocytes. This term highlights their primary function—transporting oxygen throughout the body. Erythrocytes are characterized by their biconcave shape, which increases their surface area for gas exchange and allows them to traverse blood vessels more easily.

The other options represent different components of blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and are not involved in oxygen transport. Leukocytes, or white blood cells, play a crucial role in the immune response and defending the body against infections. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies and are involved in the immune response, but they do not transport oxygen. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why erythrocytes is the correct term for red blood cells.