Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes: Hemoglobin

Anatomy & Physiology

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes: Hemoglobin

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Problem 18

Textbook Question

Which antigens does a person with blood type A− have on the surface of his or her erythrocytes?
a. A antigens
b. B antigens
c. Rh antigens
d. Both a and c are correct.
e. All of the above

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the concept of blood type antigens. Blood type is determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of erythrocytes (red blood cells). The two main antigens are A and B, and the Rh antigen determines whether the blood type is positive (+) or negative (−).

Step 2: Analyze the blood type given in the problem. A− blood type means the person has A antigens on their erythrocytes but does not have Rh antigens (negative Rh factor).

Step 3: Eliminate options that are inconsistent with the characteristics of A− blood type. For example, B antigens are not present in A− blood type, so option b can be excluded.

Step 4: Consider whether both A antigens and Rh antigens are present. Since the Rh antigen is absent in A− blood type, option d (both a and c) can also be excluded.

Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer must align with the presence of A antigens only, as this is the defining characteristic of A− blood type.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Blood Type Antigens

Blood type antigens are specific molecules found on the surface of red blood cells (erythrocytes) that determine an individual's blood group. The main types are A and B antigens, which classify blood into types A, B, AB, and O. The presence or absence of these antigens is crucial for blood transfusions and compatibility.

Rh Factor

The Rh factor is another important antigen that can be present on the surface of red blood cells. It is denoted as positive (+) if the Rh antigen is present and negative (−) if it is absent. The Rh factor is significant in pregnancy and blood transfusions, as incompatibility can lead to serious health issues.

Blood Type A−

A person with blood type A− has A antigens on their erythrocytes and lacks B antigens. Additionally, the negative sign indicates the absence of the Rh factor. This means that their blood can safely receive type A or O blood, but not type B or AB, and they can only receive Rh− blood to avoid complications.