Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Antibodies and vaccination

Antibodies and vaccination — practice question

Fig. 3.1 is an electron micrograph showing a B-lymphocyte known as a plasma cell. Plasma cells release antibody molecules.
(a)[2]

Suggest why plasma cells have a substantial amount of rough endoplasmic reticulum.

(b)[2]

The diameter A-B of the plasma cell in Fig. 3.1 is $15\,\mu\text{m}$. Calculate the magnification of Fig. 3.1. Show your working.

(c)[1]

Name the causative organism (pathogen) of smallpox.

(d)[3]

Fig. 3.2 shows that the number of smallpox-specific plasma cells rises and then falls within $35$ days after vaccination. Explain how a single dose of this vaccine can provide immunity for up to $10$ years when the plasma cells are short-lived.

(e)[2]

State two reasons why the vaccination programme succeeded in eradicating smallpox.

(f)[1]

State the type of immunity provided by the smallpox vaccine.

Worked solution & mark scheme

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