Final answer:
Blood plasma is the liquid component of blood that suspends blood cells and contains water, dissolved proteins, glucose, ions, hormones, and gases. It accounts for about 55% of the blood's volume and is essential in transporting nutrients and maintaining homeostasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The part of the blood that suspends all of its whole material is called plasma. Plasma serves as the liquid matrix in which various blood cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are suspended. It is a yellowish, watery liquid that makes up about 55% of the blood's volume and consists of 90% water, with the rest being dissolved proteins, glucose, ions, hormones, and gases. Blood plasma not only carries these cells but also plays a critical role in transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It also contains important components such as antibodies and coagulation factors, which are essential for the body's defense and blood-clotting mechanisms.