Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

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Problem 14a

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Oxygen is transported primarily by dissolving in the plasma.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of oxygen transport in the blood. Oxygen is carried from the lungs to the tissues primarily by binding to hemoglobin in red blood cells, not by dissolving in the plasma.

Recall that only a small percentage of oxygen (about 1.5%) is dissolved directly in the plasma due to its low solubility in water.

The majority of oxygen (about 98.5%) is transported by binding to hemoglobin, forming oxyhemoglobin (HbO₂).

Evaluate the statement: 'Oxygen is transported primarily by dissolving in the plasma.' This is false because the primary method of oxygen transport is via hemoglobin, not plasma.

Correct the statement: 'Oxygen is transported primarily by binding to hemoglobin in red blood cells, with only a small amount dissolved in the plasma.'

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Oxygen Transport in Blood

Oxygen transport in the blood occurs mainly through two mechanisms: binding to hemoglobin in red blood cells and dissolving in plasma. While a small amount of oxygen is carried dissolved in plasma, the majority (about 98.5%) is transported bound to hemoglobin, which allows for efficient oxygen delivery to tissues.

Role of Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen molecules. Each hemoglobin molecule can carry up to four oxygen molecules, significantly increasing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity compared to what could be transported dissolved in plasma alone. This binding is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the body.

Plasma and Gas Solubility

Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries various substances, including gases. While gases like oxygen can dissolve in plasma, their solubility is limited. This is why the majority of oxygen is transported via hemoglobin, as the amount that can be carried dissolved in plasma is insufficient for the body's needs.

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Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.Oxygen is transported primarily by dissolving in the plasma.

Key Concepts

Oxygen Transport in Blood

Role of Hemoglobin

Plasma and Gas Solubility

Watch next

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Oxygen is transported primarily by dissolving in the plasma.