More than one choice may apply. Plasma without the clotting proteins is called
a. Serum
b. Whole blood
c. Fibrin
d. Tissue factor

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the composition of plasma: Plasma is the liquid portion of blood that contains water, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, waste products, and proteins, including clotting factors.
2. Learn the definition of serum: Serum is the component of plasma that remains after the clotting proteins (such as fibrinogen) have been removed during the clotting process.
3. Compare the options: Analyze each choice to determine which matches the definition of plasma without clotting proteins. For example, 'serum' fits the description, while 'whole blood' includes both plasma and cellular components, and 'fibrin' is a protein involved in clot formation.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Exclude choices that do not align with the definition of plasma without clotting proteins, such as 'whole blood' and 'tissue factor,' which are unrelated to the removal of clotting proteins.
5. Select the correct answer(s): Based on the analysis, identify the correct choice(s) that match the definition of plasma without clotting proteins.

Key Concepts

Plasma and Serum

Plasma is the liquid component of blood that contains water, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and proteins, including clotting factors. Serum, on the other hand, is the fluid that remains after blood has clotted and the clotting proteins have been removed. Understanding the distinction between plasma and serum is crucial for answering questions related to blood components.

Clotting Proteins

Clotting proteins, also known as coagulation factors, are essential for the blood clotting process. They work in a cascade to form a clot that prevents excessive bleeding. Recognizing the role of these proteins helps in understanding why plasma without them is specifically referred to as serum.

Whole Blood

Whole blood refers to blood that contains all its components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma with clotting factors. It is important to differentiate whole blood from serum and plasma, as the question specifically asks about plasma devoid of clotting proteins, which leads to the identification of serum.