Final answer:
The process of adhesion, degranulation, and release by platelets leads to the formation of a platelet plug, also known as a fibrin clot, at an injury site to prevent further bleeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Adhesion, degranulation, and the release reaction involving platelets recruit additional platelets to adhere, degranulate, and release; the result is the formation of a platelet plug at the site of injury. This platelet plug is also commonly known as a fibrin clot, which stabilizes and stops further bleeding. At the injury site, platelets are activated by substances released from damaged tissue and through the contact with exposed collagen fibers. They change shape to become more spiked and sticky, which helps them to adhere to each other and the wound site. Von Willebrand factor assists in stabilizing the growing platelet plug while activated platelets release more chemicals to attract additional platelets, creating a positive feedback loop. This process continues until the clot is sufficiently large to halt blood loss.