The term PLASMA COMPONENTS can be broken down into two parts: IONS (4 letters). Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost one or more electrons, giving them a net electric charge. They are important components of plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of charged particles, such as ions and electrons, that are suspended in a gas. Ions are created when atoms or molecules gain or lose electrons, and they are essential for many processes in the body, including nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and the transport of nutrients across cell membranes.