What component of blood is responsible for transporting nutrients and gases?

Plasma is a crucial component of blood that serves as the liquid medium in which various substances are dissolved and transported throughout the body. It constitutes about 55% of total blood volume and is primarily composed of water, but it also contains proteins, electrolytes, hormones, nutrients, and waste products.

Nutrients, such as glucose, amino acids, and vitamins, are dissolved in the plasma and transported to cells where they are needed for energy and metabolic processes. Additionally, gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide are also carried in the plasma, although a majority of oxygen is bound to hemoglobin in red blood cells. The ability of plasma to maintain homeostasis and transport essential substances makes it vital for the overall functioning of the body.

In contrast, white blood cells are primarily involved in the immune response, protecting the body against infections. Red blood cells are specialized for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation. Platelets play a key role in blood clotting and preventing bleeding. Thus, while each component has specific functions, plasma is the component responsible for the general transport of nutrients and gases within the blood.