What type of cells are lymphocytes?

Lymphocytes are a specific type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system. They are integral to the body’s defense mechanisms, specifically in recognizing and responding to pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. Lymphocytes can be further categorized into B cells and T cells, each serving different functions in the immune response.

Choosing white blood cells as the correct answer highlights the distinction between different types of blood cells within the immune system. Red blood cells are primarily responsible for transporting oxygen, platelets are involved in blood clotting, and stem cells are the precursor cells that can differentiate into various cell types, including blood cells, but are not a type of immune cell themselves. Thus, identifying lymphocytes as a part of white blood cells accurately reflects their role and classification in the context of the immune system.