Which type of acquired immunity is achieved through the administration of immune serum?

The type of acquired immunity achieved through the administration of immune serum is classified as artificially acquired passive immunity. This occurs when antibodies are introduced into an individual's body from an external source, rather than being generated by the person's own immune system.

In this case, the immune serum contains antibodies that can provide immediate protection against specific pathogens. This type of immunity does not involve the individual's own immune system actively producing an immune response, which is why it is termed "passive." Additionally, the use of "artificially acquired" indicates that the immunity was gained through a medical intervention, such as an injection, as opposed to being derived naturally through processes like breastfeeding or transplacental transfer from mother to child.

This distinction is essential when differentiating between types of immunity. For instance, artificially acquired active immunity would involve vaccination, where the body actively produces its own antibodies in response to a pathogen. Conversely, naturally acquired active immunity happens when an individual is exposed to a pathogen in the environment and develops immunity as a result. Each type of immunity plays a crucial role in how organisms defend against diseases.