Explain the composition and function of plasma in detail.

(N/A) Plasma is a straw-colored,viscous fluid constituting nearly $55 \%$ of the blood.
- Various elements present in it and their functions are as follows:
- Water: $90-92 \%$ of plasma is water,which acts as a solvent for suspended elements.
- Salts: $Na^{+}$,$Ca^{++}$,$Mg^{++}$,$K^{+}$,$Cl^{-}$,and $HCO_{3}^{-}$ (bicarbonate) are present. Their major functions include osmotic balance,maintenance of $pH$,and regulation of the permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane.
- Plasma Proteins: $6-8 \%$
- Albumin: Involved in osmotic regulation and $pH$ maintenance.
- Globulin: Involved in defense mechanisms and immunity.
- Fibrinogen: Essential for the coagulation of blood.
- Nutrients: Glucose,amino acids,and lipids are also present in the plasma as they are in transit throughout the body.
- Factors for the coagulation or clotting of blood are also present in plasma in an inactive form.
- Plasma without the clotting factors is called serum.