Question 59
Donating blood helps save lives (Figure 2.26). We all have different blood types. This is a classification of blood based partly on what antibodies it contains.
Some people's blood contains antibodies that will attack blood cells from someone else, in the same way they attack pathogens. The main blood groups have letters (A, B, AB, O) and a + or − symbol. If your blood group is A−, you say it as 'A negative'.
- People with O negative blood are universal donors. This means their blood can be safely donated to people of any blood type.
- People who are AB positive are universal recipients. This means they can safely receive blood of any blood type.
- People with O negative blood type are in high demand by blood banks. Their blood can be used most often for people who need an urgent blood transfusion.
Ask your classmates and teachers what their blood types are. If they do not know, make a note on your records.
Discuss whether your data are representative. For example, have you surveyed enough people? Have you asked people from all age groups and genders? Did everyone know their blood type?
Some people's blood contains antibodies that will attack blood cells from someone else, in the same way they attack pathogens. The main blood groups have letters (A, B, AB, O) and a + or − symbol. If your blood group is A−, you say it as 'A negative'.
- People with O negative blood are universal donors. This means their blood can be safely donated to people of any blood type.
- People who are AB positive are universal recipients. This means they can safely receive blood of any blood type.
- People with O negative blood type are in high demand by blood banks. Their blood can be used most often for people who need an urgent blood transfusion.
Ask your classmates and teachers what their blood types are. If they do not know, make a note on your records.
Discuss whether your data are representative. For example, have you surveyed enough people? Have you asked people from all age groups and genders? Did everyone know their blood type?
