A mother breastfeeds her newborn baby. Explain why the immunity the baby receives from breastfeeding is described as passive immunity, and state one way in which this differs from active immunity.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
Breastfeeding transfers antibodies from the mother to the baby, so the baby receives antibodies that were produced by another individual. The baby does not produce its own antibodies, and no memory cells are formed, so the immunity is short‑term. In contrast, active immunity is produced by the baby’s own immune system and generates memory cells, giving long‑term protection.
Examiner tips
- Mention transfer of antibodies from mother
- State baby does not produce them
- Explain lack of memory cells
- Contrast with long‑term active immunity
Common mistakes
- Saying the baby produces the antibodies
- Claiming passive immunity is long‑term
- Confusing passive with active immunity
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Breastfeeding transfers antibodies from the mother to the baby
- The baby does not produce its own antibodies / the antibodies are made by another individual
- No memory cells are produced in the baby, so immunity is short-term
- Active immunity provides long-term / lasting immunity (because memory cells are produced)
Key terms in this question
passive immunity · active immunity
Related
- All Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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