Which aspect of the blood is crucial for delivering nutrients throughout the body?

Plasma is the liquid component of blood that plays a vital role in transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It makes up about 55% of total blood volume and is primarily composed of water, which serves as a solvent for various substances. Within plasma, crucial nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, and vitamins are dissolved and carried to cells and tissues where they are needed for energy, growth, and cellular repair.

In addition to nutrients, plasma also carries electrolytes, proteins, and waste products, contributing to overall homeostasis in the body. This makes plasma essential for maintaining the health of tissues and organs, as it ensures that vital nutrients reach their destinations effectively.

Other components, such as cellular components, hemoglobin, and antibodies, have important functions as well but are not primarily involved in nutrient delivery. Cellular components include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which serve different roles in oxygen transport, immune response, and clotting. Hemoglobin, found within red blood cells, is specifically responsible for oxygen transport rather than nutrient delivery. Antibodies are part of the immune system, crucial for identifying and neutralizing pathogens but not involved in nutrient transport.