Final answer:
Blood plasma is the liquid component of blood and contains proteins, antibodies, lipids, and various other substances. It does not contain clotting proteins, but it does contain antibodies and hormones. The composition of blood plasma helps maintain proper pH and osmotic balance in the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The plasma component of blood without the coagulation factors is called the serum. Serum is similar to interstitial fluid in which the correct composition of key ions acting as electrolytes is essential for normal functioning of muscles and nerves. Other components in the serum include proteins that assist with maintaining pH and osmotic balance while giving viscosity to the blood. The serum also contains antibodies, specialized proteins that are important for defense against viruses and bacteria. Lipids, including cholesterol, are also transported in the serum, along with various other substances including nutrients, hormones, metabolic waste, plus external substances, such as, drugs, viruses, and bacteria.