Which of the following blood components is primarily responsible for the transport of oxygen?

The primary responsibility for the transport of oxygen in the blood lies with red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes. These specialized cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to the tissues throughout the body. Hemoglobin not only facilitates the transportation of oxygen but also plays a crucial role in the removal of carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism.

This unique ability to carry and deliver vital gases makes red blood cells essential for maintaining the body's overall metabolism and physiological functions. While plasma is a major component of blood that serves various functions such as transporting nutrients and waste, it does not transport oxygen directly. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, and white blood cells are primarily part of the immune system, working to defend against infections and foreign bodies. Thus, the role of red blood cells is central to oxygen transport in the circulatory system.