What is the primary role of platelets in the blood?

The primary role of platelets, also known as thrombocytes, in the blood is to assist in blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets quickly gather at the site of the injury, adhere to the damaged area, and aggregate together to form a temporary plug. This action is crucial in preventing excessive bleeding and initiating the healing process. Additionally, platelets release various chemicals that help promote the clotting cascade, ultimately leading to the formation of a stable blood clot.

The other functions mentioned, such as transporting oxygen, absorbing carbon dioxide, and producing hormones, are performed by other components of the blood. Red blood cells are responsible for oxygen transport, while the removal of carbon dioxide is primarily managed by plasma and red blood cells. Hormone production occurs mainly in glands rather than in the blood itself. Therefore, the significant and specific role of platelets in the context of hemostasis, or stopping bleeding, makes assisting in blood clotting the correct answer.