A Level Biology Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Master the A Level Biology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your test. Start your journey to excellence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the main function of B memory cells?

To destroy pathogens immediately
To provide long-term immunological memory
To produce large amounts of antibodies
To recognize foreign antigens upon first exposure

The correct answer is: To provide long-term immunological memory

B memory cells play a crucial role in the immune system's ability to remember past infections. Their primary function is to provide long-term immunological memory. When the body encounters a pathogen for the first time, B cells are activated, and some of these cells differentiate into memory B cells. These memory cells persist in the body for years or even decades after the initial exposure. In the event of a subsequent encounter with the same pathogen, memory B cells quickly recognize the antigens and respond more rapidly and effectively than during the first exposure. This means that the body can mount a stronger and faster immune response, helping to prevent illness or reduce its severity. Thus, their key function is not just immediate action but ensuring long-lasting protection by 'remembering' specific pathogens for future encounters.