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Multiple Choice
Which of the following makes up approximately 55% of blood by volume?
A
Platelets
B
White blood cells
C
Red blood cells
D
Plasma
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the composition of blood: Blood is composed of plasma and formed elements, which include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Identify the role of plasma: Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries cells and proteins throughout the body. It is primarily made up of water, but also contains electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
Recognize the percentage of plasma in blood: Plasma makes up approximately 55% of the total blood volume, which is the largest component by volume compared to the formed elements.
Differentiate between formed elements: Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets collectively make up the remaining 45% of blood volume. Red blood cells are the most abundant formed element, but they do not exceed the volume of plasma.
Conclude that plasma is the correct answer: Given that plasma constitutes about 55% of blood by volume, it is the component that matches the description in the problem.