Blood and lymph are two types of fluid tissues found in the human body. Here are the differences between blood and lymph:
- Composition: Blood is a fluid connective tissue that is composed of blood cells and plasma. Plasma is a yellowish liquid that contains water, salts, and proteins. Lymph, on the other hand, is a clear fluid that is composed of white blood cells, proteins, and fats.
- Color: Blood is bright red when oxygenated and dark red when deoxygenated. Lymph is a clear or yellowish fluid.
- Function: Blood is responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the body and removing waste products. It also plays a vital role in immune system functions. Lymph is responsible for transporting fats, proteins, and other substances from the digestive system to the bloodstream. It also helps to remove waste and foreign particles from the body.
- Circulatory system: Blood circulates in the blood vessels of the circulatory system, which includes the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. Lymph circulates through lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, which make up the lymphatic system.
- Origin: Blood cells are formed in the bone marrow, while lymphocytes are produced in the lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus gland.
- Clotting: Blood has the ability to clot, which helps to prevent excessive bleeding in case of injury. Lymph does not clot.
Overall, blood and lymph have different compositions, functions, and circulatory systems in the body.