Which type of immunity involves the production of antibodies by B cells?

Humoral immunity is characterized by the production of antibodies by B cells in response to specific antigens. When a pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria, invades the body, B cells are activated and begin to proliferate. They differentiate into plasma cells, which are responsible for secreting large quantities of antibodies tailored to bind to the antigens presented by the invading pathogens. These antibodies play a crucial role in neutralizing pathogens and facilitating their elimination by other components of the immune system.

This form of immunity is distinct from other types, such as innate immunity, which provides the first line of defense but does not involve a specific response to pathogens; or cell-mediated immunity, which primarily involves T cells and does not rely on antibody production. Passive immunity refers to the acquisition of antibodies from an external source, such as through breastfeeding or serum transfer, and does not involve the active production of antibodies by the recipient's own immune system. Thus, humoral immunity is uniquely associated with B cell activity and antibody production, making it the correct choice in this scenario.