What are the major plasma components?

• A. Water, proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones.
• B. Erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets.
• C. Hormones, enzymes, neutral fats.
• D. Glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, minerals.

Answer: (A)

Plasma is the liquid component of blood, so its major constituents are the substances dissolved in that water-based medium. Water makes up the vast majority of plasma. The next largest group is plasma proteins, such as albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, which help with osmotic balance, immunity, and clotting. Dissolved solutes include electrolytes (like sodium and potassium) that regulate pH and fluid balance, as well as nutrients and hormones that are carried in the plasma to tissues. This combination best captures the major components of plasma, whereas the other options focus on cells or specific solutes rather than the overall liquid composition.