What is the definition of the term 'Colloidal' in relation to blood?

The term "colloidal" in relation to blood refers to a gel-like state in which the components of the blood, such as proteins, are suspended in plasma. This colloidal property is crucial because it allows for the effective transportation of nutrients, waste products, and other substances throughout the body while maintaining the fluidity necessary for proper circulation. In a colloidal solution, particles do not settle out, creating a stable mixture that exhibits properties of both solid and liquid characteristics, hence the designation as gel-like.

Understanding this property can help in comprehending how blood functions in different physiological contexts, such as in maintaining osmotic balance and facilitating clotting processes.