🧪 Introduction

Blood is a connective tissue vital for various bodily functions. It is composed of approximately 42% cells and 58% fluid matrix (plasma). It constitutes about 7% of total body weight, amounting to roughly 4-5 liters in an average adult.

🔗 Components of Blood

Blood consists of several key components:

• Plasma (~58%): The liquid component that carries nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
• Platelets: Essential for blood clotting.
• White Blood Cells (<1%): Crucial for immune response.
• Red Blood Cells (~42%): Responsible for oxygen transport.

🧬 What is Plasma?

Plasma is the fluid component of blood, and it is not produced by a specific organ. Instead, it is created through the absorption of water and salts from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Plasma plays a critical role in maintaining blood pressure and volume, and it serves as a transport medium for various substances.

🌟 Key Takeaways

• Blood is a vital connective tissue made up of cells and plasma.
• It is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
• Plasma is formed through the absorption of water and salts from the GIT.