Understand the Bohr effect, which describes how increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood lead to a decrease in blood pH, promoting the release of oxygen from hemoglobin.
Recognize that increased CO2 levels result in the formation of carbonic acid, which dissociates into hydrogen ions (H+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-), lowering the pH of the blood.
Recall that a lower pH (more acidic environment) causes hemoglobin to change its shape, reducing its affinity for oxygen and thus promoting oxygen release.
Consider the role of 2,3-Bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG), which binds to hemoglobin and stabilizes the deoxygenated form, facilitating oxygen release. However, the problem specifies increased CO2 levels, not 2,3-BPG concentration.
Conclude that increased carbon dioxide levels lead to a lower pH, which enhances the release of oxygen from hemoglobin, aligning with the Bohr effect.