Blood without red blood cells (RBCs) is called plasma.
Understanding Plasma
Plasma is the liquid component of blood, and it's what remains after removing the red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes).
- Composition: According to the provided reference, plasma is the liquid base for whole blood. It's essentially whole blood minus the RBCs, WBCs, and platelets.
- Appearance: Plasma typically appears light-yellowish or straw-colored.
- Function: Plasma serves as a transport medium for various substances in the blood, including:
- Nutrients
- Hormones
- Waste products
- Antibodies
- Clotting factors
In summary, plasma is the fluid matrix of blood, crucial for carrying cells and other vital components throughout the body.
