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Multiple Choice
Hydrogen ions bind to the ______ portion of a hemoglobin molecule.
A
oxygen-binding site
B
globin (protein)
C
heme (iron)
D
porphyrin ring
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein composed of four subunits, each containing a heme group and a globin protein. The heme group includes an iron atom bound within a porphyrin ring.
Recognize the role of hydrogen ions in hemoglobin function: Hydrogen ions (H⁺) influence hemoglobin's ability to bind and release oxygen, a process known as the Bohr effect.
Identify the binding site for hydrogen ions: Hydrogen ions bind to specific amino acid residues in the globin portion of hemoglobin, altering its conformation and oxygen-binding affinity.
Differentiate between the components: The heme group is responsible for oxygen binding via the iron atom, while the globin protein interacts with hydrogen ions to regulate hemoglobin's function.
Conclude that hydrogen ions bind to the globin (protein) portion of hemoglobin, not the heme (iron) or porphyrin ring, as these are involved in oxygen binding rather than pH regulation.