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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules are found on the surface of human blood cells and are responsible for determining blood type?
A
Phospholipids
B
Glycoproteins
C
Cholesterol
D
DNA
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: Blood type is determined by specific molecules present on the surface of red blood cells. These molecules are involved in cell recognition and immune response.
Recall that the molecules responsible for determining blood type are part of the ABO blood group system. These molecules are glycoproteins and glycolipids, which have carbohydrate chains that vary depending on the blood type (A, B, AB, or O).
Eliminate the incorrect options: Phospholipids are structural components of cell membranes but do not determine blood type. Cholesterol is involved in membrane fluidity but is not related to blood type. DNA is the genetic material inside the nucleus and does not play a role in determining blood type.
Focus on glycoproteins: Glycoproteins are proteins with attached carbohydrate chains. These carbohydrate chains on the glycoproteins are what determine the specific blood type by interacting with antibodies in the immune system.
Conclude that glycoproteins are the correct answer because they are the molecules on the surface of red blood cells responsible for determining blood type.