Which component of blood contains antibodies (immunoglobulins) that help protect the body from pathogens?

• A. Plasma
• B. Erythrocytes (red blood cells)
• C. Platelets (thrombocytes)
• D. Neutrophils

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the components of blood. Blood is composed of plasma and formed elements, which include erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and platelets (thrombocytes).
2. Step 2: Identify the function of each component. Erythrocytes primarily transport oxygen, platelets are involved in blood clotting, and neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection by engulfing pathogens.
3. Step 3: Recognize that antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins that specifically bind to antigens on pathogens to neutralize or mark them for destruction.
4. Step 4: Know that antibodies are found dissolved in the plasma, the liquid portion of blood, which carries these proteins throughout the body to provide immune protection.
5. Step 5: Conclude that plasma is the component of blood that contains antibodies (immunoglobulins) that help protect the body from pathogens.