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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true about the amount of oxygen carried by erythrocytes (red blood cells)?
A
Each hemoglobin molecule can bind up to four oxygen molecules.
B
Erythrocytes release all their oxygen in the tissues.
C
The amount of oxygen carried by erythrocytes is independent of hemoglobin concentration.
D
Erythrocytes can carry oxygen only when they are in the lungs.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.
Recognize that hemoglobin is a protein found in erythrocytes that plays a crucial role in oxygen transport. Each hemoglobin molecule can bind up to four oxygen molecules, which is essential for efficient oxygen transport.
Consider the statement that erythrocytes release all their oxygen in the tissues. In reality, erythrocytes release oxygen based on the tissue's needs, not all at once, allowing for efficient oxygen delivery.
Evaluate the claim that the amount of oxygen carried by erythrocytes is independent of hemoglobin concentration. In fact, the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood is directly related to the hemoglobin concentration, as hemoglobin is the molecule that binds oxygen.
Analyze the statement that erythrocytes can carry oxygen only when they are in the lungs. Erythrocytes carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, so they are capable of carrying oxygen throughout the circulatory system, not just in the lungs.