Which component of blood carries oxygen?

Red blood cells are primarily responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. They contain a protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues that require it. Each red blood cell can carry a significant amount of oxygen, making them crucial for respiratory function and overall cellular metabolism.

The other components of blood do not carry oxygen. Plasma, which is the liquid component of blood, serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products but does not play a direct role in oxygen transport. White blood cells are part of the immune system and help defend the body against infections but do not facilitate oxygen transportation. Platelets are involved in blood clotting and the repair of damaged blood vessels, rather than oxygen transport. Hence, red blood cells are the correct choice when identifying the component of blood that carries oxygen.