Question

Blood is a special type of connective tissue which (a) Consists of a fluid matric (Plasma) (b) Forms elements (c) Is the most commonly used body fluid in most of the higher organism (d) All the above

Short answer

The correct answer is (d) All of the above.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze Each Option

Review each option individually. Option (a) states that blood consists of a fluid matrix (plasma). This is true, as plasma is the liquid component of blood. Option (b) says that blood forms elements. This is also true, as blood cells are formed elements. Option (c) asserts that blood is the most commonly used body fluid in most of the higher organisms, which is correct as blood circulates nutrients, oxygen, and wastes in the body.

Choose the Correct Answer

After reviewing the options individually, it is evident that all points are correct about blood. Therefore, the right answer to this question would be option (d) which states 'All of the above'.

Key concepts

Plasma

Plasma is the yellowish liquid component of blood that serves many crucial functions in the body. Comprising about 55% of total blood volume, plasma is mostly water, yet it contains essential nutrients too.

• It holds water, proteins, electrolytes, and waste products.
• Plasma carries hormones, nutrients, and proteins to the parts of the body that need it the most.
• It plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure and volume.

The proteins found in plasma are critical for clotting and defense– the key ones being albumin, fibrinogen, and globulins. Its regular composition is essential for regulating body temperature and maintaining acid-base balance. Additionally, plasma acts as a reservoir that can release vital substances to the body when needed, making it indispensable for maintaining homeostasis.

Formed elements

Formed elements are the cellular components of blood and include red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Together, they make up about 45% of the blood volume. **Red Blood Cells (RBCs):** Also known as erythrocytes, these cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Their distinctive biconcave shape optimizes them for gas exchange. **White Blood Cells (WBCs):** These cells are crucial for the immune system. They protect the body against infections by attacking and digesting pathogens. **Platelets:** Technically not cells but small cell fragments, platelets are vital for blood clotting. They gather at sites of injury to initiate the clotting process to prevent blood loss. Every formed element plays a critical role in supporting the body's function, from oxygen transport to immunity and healing.

Body fluid

Body fluids include blood, lymph, and interstitial fluid, among others, all of which play critical roles in various physiological processes. Blood, as a primary body fluid, serves as a transport medium in the circulatory system. It is pivotal for

• Transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells
• Removing waste products away from cells
• Facilitating the immune response

Moreover, blood helps regulate body temperature and pH balance, ensuring the body's homeostasis. Lymph, as another body fluid, drains excess fluids from tissues, playing an essential role in immune defense. Interstitial fluid acts as a mediator, providing cells with necessary nutrients and oxygen. Together, these fluids facilitate nutrient delivery, waste removal, and immune protection, ensuring the optimal operation of bodily functions.