Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

What is the color of plasma?

1. Bright red

2. Pale yellow or gray

3. Dark blue

4. Clear

The correct answer is: Pale yellow or gray

Plasma is the liquid component of blood and is mainly composed of water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and waste products. Its color is typically described as pale yellow or straw-colored due to the presence of these dissolved substances, particularly proteins such as albumin and fibrinogen, which give it its characteristic hue. Understanding the color of plasma is important in various aspects of medical and health sciences, as it can offer insights into a person's hydration levels, nutritional status, and potential medical conditions. The other color options—bright red, dark blue, and clear—do not accurately represent plasma's typical appearance, but rather relate to different substances or contexts, such as oxygenated blood, certain inks, or other bodily fluids.