Question

There are an average of __________ WBCs per cubic millimeter of whole blood.

A) 100-1000
B) 4000-11,000
C) 10,000-20,000
D) 50,000-100,000

Answer 1

The average number of white blood cells per cubic millimeter of whole blood is between 4,000 to 11,000. This is consistent across many sources and represents a normal, healthy range for humans, making option B) 4,000-11,000 the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

There are an average of 4,000 to 11,000 white blood cells (WBCs) per cubic millimeter of whole blood. This puts the correct answer at B) 4,000-11,000. White blood cells are crucial components of the immune system and are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders. The normal range of white blood cells is considered a benchmark for health, and significant deviations from this range may indicate infection or disease. Furthermore, the production of white blood cells occurs mainly in the bone marrow, and they are present in lesser quantities compared to red blood cells.

The quantity of WBCs is measured in cells per microliter (μl) of blood, and a standard cubic millimeter is equivalent to a microliter. Therefore, when expressing white blood cell count, measurements may range from 3.5 to 11 x 10⁹ cells/L, which is consistent with the regarded healthy range for humans. The different types of WBCs include neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, each having specific functions within the immune system.