Question

Which type of adaptive immunity does the following statement describe? This type of immunity is acquired via the passing of antibodies from a mother to a child to give immunity during the development of the child's immune system.

1) artificially acquired passive immunity
2) naturally acquired active immunity
3) artificially acquired active immunity
4) naturally acquired passive immunity

Answer 1

Naturally acquired passive immunity is the type of adaptive immunity described in the statement, acquired through the transfer of antibodies from a mother to a child during fetal development or through breastfeeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of adaptive immunity described in the statement is naturally acquired passive immunity.

During fetal development, antibodies (specifically IgG) are transferred from the mother's circulation to the fetus via the placenta, providing protection against infections. Additionally, newborns receive IgA antibodies from breast milk, further enhancing their immune defense. This type of immunity is acquired naturally and passively, as the child does not mount its own immune response.