Difference Between Red Blood Cells (RBC) and White Blood Cells (WBC)
Characteristics | Red Blood Cells (RBC) | White Blood Cells (WBC) |
---|---|---|
Color | Red | Colorless |
Size | Smaller than WBC | Larger than RBC |
Number | More numerous than WBC | Less numerous than RBC |
Nucleus | No nucleus | Contains nucleus |
Function | Transport oxygen to body tissues | Defense against pathogens and foreign substances |
Shape | Biconcave disc shape | Varies (depending on the type of WBC) |
Lifespan | Average lifespan of about 120 days | Lifespan varies (some live for hours, while others can live for years) |
Production | Produced in the bone marrow | Produced in the bone marrow and lymphoid organs |
Types | Only one type of RBC (erythrocyte) | Several types of WBC (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils) |