What is the clear fluid portion of blood that suspends its cells and is often extracted during dehydration?

The clear fluid portion of blood that suspends its cells is plasma. Plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of its total volume, and is crucial for transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. When dehydration occurs, the body's fluid balance is disrupted, leading to a reduction in plasma volume, which can result in an increased concentration of blood cells and other components.

Serum, while also a clear fluid, is the portion of blood that remains after coagulation and is missing clotting factors, making it different from plasma. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, not a fluid portion. Electrolytes refer to minerals in the blood that carry an electric charge, such as sodium and potassium, but they are components of the plasma rather than a separate fluid. Therefore, plasma is the most accurate answer in this context, given its role in suspending blood cells and being affected during instances of dehydration.