Problem 5 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

Antibodies: a. are each composed of four heavy and four light chains. b. display a variable end, which determines the antibody's location in the body. c. belonging to the IgE group are the major antibody class in the blood. d. found in large numbers in the mucous membranes belong to class \(1 g\) G. e. function primarily to identify and bind antigens free in body fluids.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

a.False, b.Partially true, c.False, d.False, e.True

Step 1: Analyze Statement a

Assess statement a: 'Antibodies are each composed of four heavy and four light chains.' This is incorrect. Each antibody is composed of two heavy chains and two light chains.

Step 2: Analyze Statement b

Consider statement b: 'Antibodies display a variable end, which determines the antibody's location in the body.' This is partially correct. The variable region of an antibody determines its binding specificity, but it's not exactly a determinant of the antibody's location in the body.

Step 3: Analyze Statement c

Evaluate statement c: 'Antibodies belonging to the IgE group are the major antibody class in the blood.' This is incorrect. The IgG group is the main antibody class in blood.

Step 4: Analyze Statement d

Think about statement d: 'Antibodies found in large numbers in the mucous membranes belong to class 1 g G.' This is incorrect. Antibodies of the IgA class are often found in mucous membranes.

Step 5: Analyze Statement e

Consider statement e: 'Antibodies function primarily to identify and bind antigens free in body fluids.' This is correct. Antibodies are known to identify and bind to foreign substances, such as antigens, in body fluids.