Which blood component is primarily responsible for oxygen transport?

The primary blood component responsible for oxygen transport is red blood cells. These cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it throughout the body. When you inhale, oxygen enters the lungs and diffuses into the bloodstream, where it attaches to the hemoglobin in red blood cells. This oxygen-rich blood is then distributed to the tissues and organs, where oxygen is released for cellular metabolism.

In contrast, white blood cells primarily function in the immune response, helping to protect the body against infections and foreign invaders. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing, but they do not participate in oxygen transport. Plasma, the liquid component of blood, carries nutrients, hormones, and waste products, but it also does not transport oxygen directly; this is mainly the role of red blood cells.