Composition and Components of Blood

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering the composition of plasma, plasma proteins, and the formed elements of blood.

Plasma

The straw-colored liquid portion of blood ($55\%$) that carries blood cells and dissolved substances.

Formed Elements

The cellular components of blood ($45\%$), consisting of Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, and Platelets.

Water (in Plasma)

The primary component of plasma, making up $90-92\%$ of its volume.

Plasma proteins

Proteins that make up $7\%$ of plasma composition.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein; produced by the liver, it maintains blood osmotic pressure and transports hormones, fatty acids, and drugs.

Alpha and Beta globulins

Types of globulins responsible for transporting lipids and vitamins.

Gamma globulins

Also known as Immunoglobulins, these plasma proteins act as antibodies.

Fibrinogen

A plasma protein produced by the liver that is essential for blood clotting and is converted into fibrin during coagulation.

Other substances (in Plasma)

Materials making up $1-3\%$ of plasma, including glucose, amino acids, and lipids.

Erythrocytes

The technical name for Red Blood Cells (RBCs).

Leukocytes

The technical name for White Blood Cells (WBCs).

Thrombocytes

The technical name for Platelets.