* Plasma: The liquid part of blood, mostly water, but also containing proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, and waste products.
* Red blood cells: Carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.
* White blood cells: Part of the immune system, fighting off infections and diseases.
* Platelets: Small cell fragments that help stop bleeding by forming clots.
While blood contains various chemicals, it's more accurately described as a tissue, a collection of different cells working together to perform a vital function.