Plasma contains which of the following components?

Plasma is the liquid component of blood and comprises various essential substances that serve vital functions in the body. The correct choice indicates that plasma contains electrolytes, proteins, and hormones.

Electrolytes are necessary for maintaining the body’s fluid balance, transmitting nerve impulses, and muscle contraction. Common electrolytes in plasma include sodium, potassium, calcium, and bicarbonate.

Proteins in plasma, such as albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, play crucial roles in maintaining osmotic pressure, immune function, and blood clotting.

Hormones, which are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream, regulate a multitude of physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and mood. The presence of these components in plasma is fundamental for homeostasis and overall health.

The other options incorrectly suggest that plasma consists solely of proteins, red blood cells, or white blood cells. Red and white blood cells are part of the formed elements of blood, but they are not components of plasma itself. This distinction is important for understanding the composition of blood and the specific functions each component performs in the circulatory system.