In an introduction to blood, what is the liquid portion of the blood called?

• A. Serum
• B. Platelets
• C. Plasma
• D. Erythrocytes

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that blood is composed of both cellular components and a liquid portion.
2. Identify the cellular components: erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and platelets (cell fragments involved in clotting).
3. Recognize that the liquid portion of blood, which carries cells and various substances, is called plasma.
4. Differentiate plasma from serum: serum is plasma without clotting factors.
5. Conclude that the correct term for the liquid portion of blood, including clotting factors, is plasma.