Human Blood is divided into four different types. There's A, B, AB, and O. Each letter refers to a type of protein. Each type is also grouped by its Rh Factor (Rhesus Factor). The blood is either Rh positive (Rh+) or Rh negative (Rh-). Most americans have about 85% Rh+ blood. Rhesus refers to another type of protein, on the surface of red blood cells. The name Rhesus comes from Rhesus monkeys, in which the protein was discovered. Blood types become very important when a blood transfusion is necessary. In a blood transfusion, a person must receive a blood type that is compatible with his or hers own blood type. The donated blood must be accepted by the patients own blood. If the blood types are not compatible then red blood cells will clump together, making clots that can block blood vessels and cause death. Type O blood is considered the "universal donor" because it can be donated to people regardless the blood type. Type AB+ blood is considered the "universal recipient" because people with this with this type can receive any blood type.
I didn't know a lot about Blood types, I only knew a few things like the basics. What I didn't know was that blood types are inherited just like eye color. Certain blood types are more common in certain countries. In China, over 99% of the population has Rh+ blood. There are a lot of different things I didn't know. Knowing about the different blood types are interesting.
"What Does A B+ Blood Type Mean? | Socratic". Socratic.org. N.p., 2016. Web. 12 Oct. 2016.
"Blood Types". Infoplease.com. N.p., 2016. Web. 12 Oct. 2016.
That's really interesting how we can classify different people's blood types, how do we test for it?
ReplyDeleteI always knew there was different blood types but never realized how many, Very interesting, How do you test for the blood types, and can you mix them?
ReplyDeleteThat's so cool! I've always wanted to figure out what blood type I am, but how do you test for it??
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DeleteSince you guys all asked the same question, I'll just put it here. The test to determine your blood group is called ABO typing. Your blood sample is mixed with antibodies against type A and B blood. Then, the sample is checked to see whether or not the blood cells stick together. If blood cells stick together, it means the blood reacted with one of the antibodies.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the most common blood type and the least common?
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