Besides RBC, blood plasma also carries `O_(2)` in solution. The percentage is

Options

A. `3-9%`
B. `1-2%`
C. `3-6%`
D. `2-3%`

Explanation

To determine the percentage of oxygen carried by blood plasma in solution, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question asks for the percentage of oxygen that is carried by blood plasma in solution, as opposed to the oxygen carried by red blood cells (RBCs).

2. **Identify the Forms of Oxygen Transport**: There are two primary ways that oxygen is transported in the blood:
- **Dissolved in Plasma**: A small percentage of oxygen is dissolved directly in the blood plasma.
- **Bound to Hemoglobin**: The majority of oxygen is carried by hemoglobin within red blood cells, forming oxyhemoglobin.

3. **Recall the Percentages**: Based on physiological data:
- Approximately **2 to 3 percent** of oxygen is transported in a dissolved state in the plasma.
- The remaining **97 to 98 percent** of oxygen is carried by hemoglobin in the red blood cells.

4. **Select the Correct Option**: From the options provided:
- 1st option: 3-9%
- 2nd option: 1-2%
- 3rd option: 3-6%
- 4th option: 2-3%

The correct answer is the **4th option: 2-3%**, as this range accurately reflects the percentage of oxygen carried in solution by blood plasma.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the percentage of oxygen carried by blood plasma in solution is **2 to 3 percent**.