During an immune response, the latent or lag period is the number of days between the initial infection of the host and antibody production used to fight the infection. Which type of immune response will have the longer latent period?

• A. Primary Immune Response.
• B. Secondary Immune Response.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of the immune response: The immune system has two main types of responses to pathogens: the primary immune response and the secondary immune response.
2. Define the primary immune response: This is the body's first encounter with a specific antigen. During this response, the immune system takes time to recognize the antigen and produce antibodies, resulting in a longer latent period.
3. Define the secondary immune response: This occurs when the body is exposed to the same antigen again. Memory cells from the primary response recognize the antigen quickly, leading to a faster production of antibodies and a shorter latent period.
4. Compare the latent periods: The primary immune response has a longer latent period because it involves the initial recognition and production of antibodies, whereas the secondary immune response is quicker due to the presence of memory cells.
5. Conclude which response has the longer latent period: Based on the definitions and comparisons, the primary immune response will have the longer latent period.