What component of blood is responsible for transporting nutrients and waste?

Plasma is the component of blood that plays a crucial role in transporting nutrients and waste. It is the liquid portion of blood, making up about 55% of its volume, and serves as a medium for carrying various substances throughout the body. Plasma contains water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and metabolic waste. It helps deliver essential nutrients, such as glucose and amino acids, from the digestive tract to cells, while also transporting waste products like carbon dioxide and urea to the kidneys and lungs for excretion.

In contrast, red blood cells primarily function in the transportation of oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carbon dioxide in the opposite direction, which is different from the role of plasma. White blood cells are part of the immune system and are involved in protecting the body against infections and foreign invaders, rather than transporting nutrients or waste. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and help prevent bleeding but do not play a role in nutrient transport.