The word "plasm" is spelled with a silent letter "s" at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /plæzəm/. The "a" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, similar to "cat." The "z" is pronounced as a voiced "z" sound, like the "z" in "zebra." Finally, the "əm" represents the "m" sound at the end of the word. Despite the silent "s," it is important to remember to spell this word correctly when writing about scientific topics such as biology and genetics.
Plasm is a term used in biology to refer to the fluid portion of a cell's cytoplasm, excluding the organelles and other solid structures. It is a dense colloidal solution that fills the intracellular space and surrounds the organelles. The plasm is composed of water, ions, nutrients, proteins, enzymes, and other biomolecules.
In a broader context, plasm can also refer to the liquid portion of blood, devoid of blood cells. This fluid, also known as plasma, carries various substances such as hormones, glucose, electrolytes, and antibodies throughout the body, playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis.
Plasm is crucial for various cellular functions, as it provides a medium for chemical reactions, transport of molecules, and the maintenance of cell shape. It facilitates the movement of substances within the cell and aids in the elimination of waste products. Plasm also plays a role in the regulation of pH balance and osmotic pressure.
Moreover, plasm is relevant in genetic engineering and molecular biology as it has been used to refer to the cytoplasm of bacteria that contains a circular piece of DNA known as a plasmid. These plasmids can be manipulated and used as vectors to transfer genes between organisms, serving as an essential tool in genetic research and biotechnology.
Overall, plasm serves as a fundamental component in various biological processes and is central to the proper functioning of cells.
Plasma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A mould or matrix.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "plasm" is derived from the Greek word "plasma" (πλάσμα), which means "something molded" or "something formed". This noun is derived from the verb "plassein" (πλάσσειν), which means "to mold" or "to shape". "Plasm" was initially used in biology to refer to the clear, fluid portion of the blood or lymph. Eventually, it came to be used more broadly to describe the fluid or semifluid substance found in cells.