Which component of blood is primarily responsible for transporting nutrients?

Plasma is the correct answer because it serves as the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of its volume. Plasma is primarily composed of water, but it also contains a variety of substances, including nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are dissolved in the plasma and transported throughout the body to different tissues and organs, where they are utilized for energy, growth, and overall cellular function.

While red blood cells are essential for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returning carbon dioxide for exhalation, their primary function does not involve nutrient transport. White blood cells are part of the immune system, helping the body fight off infections, and platelets are crucial for blood clotting and wound healing. Neither white blood cells nor platelets play a significant role in the transport of nutrients. Therefore, plasma is specifically recognized for its role in nutrient transportation, distinguishing it as the primary component involved in this vital process.