The process of blood clotting is called
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✅ Correct Answer: B — Coagulation
Coagulation, also known as blood clotting, is the biological process by which blood changes from a liquid state to a gel, forming a clot to stop bleeding at a wound site. The process involves a cascade of reactions with clotting factors (numbered I to XIII). When a blood vessel is injured, platelets rush to the site and form a temporary plug. Then, the coagulation cascade activates, converting fibrinogen (soluble) to fibrin (insoluble threads) that form a mesh to reinforce the platelet plug, creating a stable clot. Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X.
❌ Why other options are wrong:
• A. Haemolysis — This is the rupture or destruction of red blood cells, releasing haemoglobin into the surrounding fluid. It is the OPPOSITE of clotting and is associated with certain diseases like sickle cell anaemia.
• C. Agglutination — This refers to the clumping together of cells (especially red blood cells or bacteria) in the presence of antibodies. It is important in blood typing but is NOT blood clotting.
• D. Phagocytosis — This is the process by which certain white blood cells (neutrophils and macrophages) engulf and destroy pathogens, debris, or damaged cells. It is an immune response, not blood clotting.
📝 Important Note: Key clotting facts — Vitamin K deficiency = impaired clotting; Haemophilia = genetic disorder with defective clotting factor VIII or IX; Thrombin converts fibrinogen to fibrin. Platelets (thrombocytes) are essential for clotting. Normal platelet count: 1.5–4.0 lakh per microlitre. Aspirin is an anticoagulant that reduces platelet aggregation. Important SSC CGL topic.
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