Final answer:
The rate of change in RBCs and blood plasma is different due to their functions and characteristics. RBCs carry oxygen and carbon dioxide, while blood plasma consists of water and substances necessary for maintaining the body. Factors such as polycythemia vera, chronic high-altitude living, dehydration, and water losses can affect the levels and volume of RBCs and blood plasma.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rate of change in RBCs (red blood cells) and blood plasma is different because they have different functions and characteristics. RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body, while blood plasma is a liquid component of blood that consists of water and various substances required for maintaining the body's pH and osmotic load.
The production of RBCs is regulated by the hormone erythropoietin, and their levels can increase in conditions such as polycythemia vera or chronic high-altitude living. On the other hand, changes in blood plasma volume can occur due to dehydration or excessive water losses.