Blood vs. Plasma
Blood and plasma are both crucial components of the circulatory system, but they serve different functions and have distinct compositions.

Composition
- Blood is a complex mixture of cells, proteins, and other substances suspended in a liquid called plasma.
- Plasma is the liquid component of blood that makes up about 55% of its total volume. It is a pale yellow fluid composed mostly of water, electrolytes, hormones, and proteins.

Functions
- Blood plays a vital role in transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It also helps regulate body temperature and maintain pH balance.
- Plasma serves as a medium for carrying cells and proteins throughout the body. It is essential for maintaining blood pressure and proper circulation.

Components
- Blood consists of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which are suspended in plasma.
- Plasma contains proteins such as albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, as well as electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium.

Importance
- Blood is essential for delivering oxygen to tissues, fighting infections, and clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.
- Plasma is crucial for maintaining blood volume, transporting nutrients, and supporting immune function.
In conclusion, while blood and plasma are closely related, they are distinct components of the circulatory system with different compositions and functions. Blood relies on plasma to transport essential components throughout the body, making both crucial for overall health and well-being.