Exploring the Components of Blood

Which component of blood is responsible for carrying oxygen to the body's cells?

• Plasma

• Red blood cells

• Platelets

• White blood cells

What is the main function of platelets in the blood?

• Carrying nutrients

• Fighting infections

• Clotting blood

• Transporting oxygen

Which term describes the liquid part of blood that carries cells and dissolved substances?

• Plasma

• Platelets

• Red blood cells

• White blood cells

White blood cells are mainly responsible for which function?

• Carrying oxygen

• Clotting blood

• Fighting infections

• Carrying carbon dioxide

If a person has a low number of red blood cells, which symptom are they most likely to experience?

• Easy bruising

• Frequent infections

• Tiredness or fatigue

• Swelling

A doctor finds that a patient’s blood does not clot properly after a cut. Which blood component is most likely not working correctly?

• Plasma

• Platelets

• Red blood cells

• White blood cells

Imagine you are a scientist studying a blood sample. You notice a high number of white blood cells. What might this indicate about the person's health?

• They are dehydrated

• They are fighting an infection

• They have low oxygen levels

• Their blood is clotting too quickly

Which of the following best explains why plasma is important for the body?

• It helps blood to clot

• It transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products

• It destroys harmful bacteria

• It carries oxygen

A patient is experiencing both frequent infections and slow healing of wounds. Using your knowledge of blood components, which two components might be involved, and why?

• Red blood cells and plasma, because they carry oxygen and nutrients

• Platelets and white blood cells, because they help with clotting and fighting infections

• Plasma and red blood cells, because they remove waste and carry oxygen

• Platelets and plasma, because they help with clotting and transport

Suppose a person’s blood test shows a normal amount of red blood cells and plasma, but a very low number of platelets. Predict what might happen if this person gets a small cut, and explain your reasoning.

• The cut will heal quickly because red blood cells are normal

• The cut may bleed for a long time because platelets are needed for clotting

• The person will get an infection because plasma is low

• The person will feel tired because of low red blood cells