What are the three types of cells that make up the cellular portion of blood?

The correct answer identifies the three main types of cells that are found in the cellular portion of blood, which are red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. White blood cells, or leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune response, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. Platelets, or thrombocytes, are essential for blood clotting, aiding in the prevention of excessive bleeding when injuries occur.

In contrast, plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries these cells along with nutrients, hormones, and waste products. Hemoglobin is a protein found within red blood cells that binds to oxygen; however, it is not a separate type of cell. Understanding these components is vital for grasping how blood functions in the body.