Q: How does high altitude affect the number of red blood cells (RBCs) in human blood?  

Answer: D

At high altitudes, the atmospheric pressure decreases and the oxygen pressure also decreases, making it harder for the lungs to take in sufficient oxygen to meet the body's needs. To compensate for this, the body increases the production of RBCs, which are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. This process is called erythropoiesis and is stimulated by a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which is produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. The increased number of RBCs helps to increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and improve oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.

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