The major difference in the composition of the plasma versus the interstitial fluid is
A)osmolarity.
B)concentration of carbohydrates.
C)concentration of solutes.
D)concentration of protein anions.
E)concentration of sodium ions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major difference in the composition of the plasma versus the interstitial fluid is the concentration of protein anions. Plasma contains a higher concentration of protein anions (such as albumin) compared to interstitial fluid. This is due to the fact that protein molecules are too large to easily pass through the walls of capillaries which separate the plasma from the interstitial fluid. As a result, plasma proteins tend to stay within the blood vessels while smaller solutes and water can pass through and make their way into the interstitial space. This concentration gradient of protein anions helps to promote the movement of fluids (such as water) from interstitial fluid back into the capillaries, which helps to maintain blood volume and blood pressure.

The Major Difference in the Composition of the Plasma Versus