Blood has a fluid matrix called ___________ in which RBCs, WBCs and platelets are suspended.

Blood has a fluid matrix called plasma in which red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets are suspended. Blood plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of total blood volume. It is a pale yellowish fluid consisting mainly of water (about 90%) along with dissolved proteins, electrolytes, hormones, gases, nutrients, and waste products. Plasma serves several important functions in the body, including transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body, maintaining blood pressure and pH balance, and helping to regulate body temperature.

Within the plasma, various cellular components are suspended, including red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues back to the lungs. White blood cells play a crucial role in the body’s immune response, defending against infections and foreign invaders. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, helping to prevent excessive bleeding when blood vessels are damaged.

Together, plasma and its cellular components form blood, which is essential for transporting substances throughout the body and maintaining overall health and homeostasis.