Final answer:
Plasma is the liquid component of blood, containing water, essential proteins, and dissolved substances. Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
Step-by-step explanation:
Plasma is the liquid component of blood. It serves as the extracellular matrix in which the formed elements—red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—are suspended.
Plasma is approximately 92% water and contains vital proteins such as albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, along with other dissolved solutes like glucose, lipids, electrolytes, and gases which help in various body functions including homeostasis, growth, and protection from pathogens. Plasma serves as a medium for transporting cells and maintaining blood pressure.
Blood serves vital functions, including the transport of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products; regulation of body temperature; maintenance of pH balance; and defense against infections.