Final answer:
The majority of whole blood, known as the matrix, is plasma, which makes up the largest volume portion of blood and is essential for numerous bodily functions and the suspension of other blood components like red and white blood cells and platelets.
Step-by-step explanation:
The majority of whole blood, which we refer to as the matrix in the context of blood as a connective tissue, is plasma. Plasma is the fluid extracellular matrix that perpetually suspends the formed elements of the blood, allowing them to circulate throughout the body within the cardiovascular system. These formed elements include erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and cell fragments called platelets. However, when considering the volume of whole blood, plasma accounts for the largest portion. Thus, the correct answer to the question is d) Plasma.
Plasma is critical for various bodily functions such as regulation of pH, temperature, and osmotic pressure. It allows for the circulation of nutrients and removal of waste, distribution of hormones, and elimination of excess heat. Plasma also contains vital components like antibodies and coagulation factors important for blood clotting mechanisms.