High School Biology : Understanding Circulatory Vessels

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for High School Biology

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : Understanding Circulatory Vessels

What blood type is sometimes called the "universal receiver?"

Possible Answers:

AB+

AB-

B-

O+

A+

Correct answer:

AB+

Explanation:

Blood types are named according to the antigens present on the surface of a person's red blood cells, specifically the ABO and Rh antigens. AB+ blood has all three antigens and therefore none of the antibodies, meaning it can receive any blood type without having an immune reaction to the donor blood. 

Example Question #12 : Understanding Circulatory Vessels

Which blood type is sometimes called the "universal donor?"

Possible Answers:

AB+

O-

O+

B-

A-

Correct answer:

O-

Explanation:

O- blood is unique from the other blood types due to its lack of ABO and Rh antigens. Unlike A and B, O is used to denote no antigens rather than an "O type" of antigen. As a result, it can be given to any other blood type since there are no antigens on the red blood cells to have an immune reaction the recipients own natural antibodies. 

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