Which one of the following statements about lymph is correct?

Lymph, also known as tissue fluid, is formed when plasma, proteins, and certain blood cells escape through the pores in capillary walls into the intercellular spaces [2]. This leakage occurs due to pressure gradients, where interstitial fluid enters lymphatic capillaries to become lymph [1]. Unlike blood, lymph is not circulated by the heart; instead, it relies on skeletal muscle contractions, respiratory movements, and one-way valves to move toward the heart [4]. While it contains lymphocytes (white blood cells) for immune defense, it is typically described as a colorless fluid that lacks red blood cells (RBCs) [1]. Furthermore, lymph has diverse functions beyond hormone transport, including the absorption of dietary fats via lacteals in the small intestine and the removal of waste products and pathogens from tissues [4].

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > Lymph > p. 94
2. [2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/lymph-capillary
3. [4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5922450/