Multiple Choice
What is the significance of the sigmoidal shape of the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve?
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17. The Blood
Erythrocytes: Hemoglobin
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What happens to oxygen binding to hemoglobin when blood pH drops?
A
Oxygen binding to hemoglobin decreases.
B
Oxygen binding to hemoglobin remains unchanged.
C
Oxygen binding to hemoglobin is not affected by pH changes.
D
Oxygen binding to hemoglobin increases.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the Bohr effect: The Bohr effect describes how pH and carbon dioxide levels affect hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen. A decrease in pH (more acidic conditions) reduces hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen.
Recognize the physiological context: When blood pH drops, it usually indicates an increase in carbon dioxide concentration or lactic acid, often due to increased metabolic activity.
Relate pH changes to hemoglobin's structure: Lower pH leads to protonation of certain amino acids in hemoglobin, stabilizing the T (tense) state, which has a lower affinity for oxygen.
Consider the implications for oxygen delivery: As hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen decreases, it releases more oxygen to tissues, which is beneficial during high metabolic activity.
Conclude the effect: Therefore, when blood pH drops, oxygen binding to hemoglobin decreases, facilitating oxygen release to tissues.
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