What component of blood is responsible for carrying oxygen?

Red blood cells are the component of blood primarily responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. These cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it to the tissues and organs that require it for metabolism and energy production. The red blood cells' unique biconcave shape increases their surface area, allowing for more efficient oxygen absorption and transport.

Plasma serves as the liquid medium in which various blood components are suspended, facilitating the transport of nutrients, hormones, and waste products, but it does not carry oxygen in the way that red blood cells do. White blood cells play a crucial role in the immune system, defending the body against infections and diseases, and platelets are essential for blood clotting, but neither of these components is involved in oxygen transport.