Question

Platelet plug formation occurs at which point?

a. when large megakaryocytes break up into thousands of smaller fragments b. when platelets are dispersed through the bloodstream

c. when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage

d. none of the above

Short answer

The correct answer is (c) when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage.

Platelet plug formation occurs when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Introduction

• Blood is a term used to describe the liquid that moves through the vessels and includes plasma (the liquid portion, which contains water, proteins, salts, lipids, and glucose) and the cells (red and white cells) and cell fragments called platelets.

Step 2. Explanation for the correct answer

c. when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage

• Blood clotting normally occurs when there is damage to a blood vessel. Platelets immediately begin to adhere to the cut edges of the vessel and release chemicals to attract even more platelets. A platelet plug is formed, and the external bleeding stops.

Step 3. Explanation for the incorrect answer

a. when large megakaryocytes break up into thousands of smaller fragments

• Platelet plug formation occurs when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage. Not when large megakaryocytes break up into thousands of smaller fragments. Hence this option is not correct.

b. when platelets are dispersed through the bloodstream

• Platelet plug formation occurs when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage. Not when platelets are dispersed through the bloodstream. Hence this option is not correct.

d. none of the above

• Platelet plug formation occurs when platelets are attracted to a site of blood vessel damage. Hence this option is not correct.