Q1. A person with which blood group will be a universal donor?
(a) A
(b) B
(c) O
(d) AB
(UPSC Prelims 1981)
Answer: (c) O
Explanation: People with blood group O are considered universal donors because their red blood cells do not carry A or B antigens, making them compatible with all other blood types. This is especially true for O negative, which lacks the Rh factor as well.
Q2. Which among the following acts as a resistance against disease in the body ?
(a) Vitamins
(b) Carbohydrates
(c) Red Corpuscles
(d) White Corpuscles
(UPSC Prelims 1982)
Answer: (d)
Explanation: White blood corpuscles (WBCs) are key components of the immune system, defending the body against infections and diseases. They identify and neutralize pathogens, acting as the first line of defense.
Q3. A universal donor has the blood group belonging to
(a) A
(b) B
(c) O
(d) AB
(UPSC Prelims 1982)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Blood group O is called the universal donor because it lacks A and B antigens, making it compatible for transfusion to any other blood group. This is crucial in emergency situations where matching blood may not be available.
Q4. Blood grouping was discovered by
(a) Landsteiner
(b) Robert Koch
(c) William Harvey
(d) Louis Pasteur
(UPSC Prelims 1987)
Answer: (a) Landsteiner
Explanation: Karl Landsteiner, an Austrian immunologist, discovered the ABO blood group system in 1901, revolutionizing blood transfusion practices and earning him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.