Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

17. The Blood

Introduction To Blood

Anatomy & Physiology

17. The Blood

Introduction To Blood

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Problem 4

Textbook Question

Plasma contributes approximately _ percent of the volume of whole blood, and water accounts for _ percent of the plasma volume.
(a) 55, 92
(b) 25, 55
(c) 92, 55
(d) 35, 72

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the composition of blood. Blood is made up of two main components: plasma and formed elements (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Plasma is the liquid portion of blood and makes up the majority of its volume.

Step 2: Recall the approximate percentage of plasma in whole blood. Plasma typically constitutes about 55% of the total blood volume, while the formed elements make up the remaining 45%.

Step 3: Understand the composition of plasma. Plasma is primarily water, which accounts for approximately 92% of its volume. The remaining 8% consists of proteins, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

Step 4: Match the given options with the correct percentages. Based on the information above, plasma contributes approximately 55% of the blood volume, and water accounts for 92% of the plasma volume.

Step 5: Identify the correct answer from the options provided. The correct choice is (a) 55, 92.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Composition of Blood

Blood is composed of several components, including plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Plasma is the liquid portion of blood, making up about 55% of its total volume. Understanding the composition of blood is essential for interpreting how different components contribute to overall health and physiological functions.

Role of Plasma

Plasma serves as the medium for transporting nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It is primarily composed of water (about 92%), proteins, electrolytes, and other substances. Recognizing the role of plasma helps in understanding its importance in maintaining homeostasis and supporting various bodily functions.

Water in Plasma

Water is the main component of plasma, constituting approximately 92% of its volume. This high water content is crucial for maintaining blood volume and pressure, as well as facilitating the transport of substances. A clear grasp of the significance of water in plasma is vital for understanding fluid balance and the physiological processes involved in circulation.