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Questions and Answers
What is carboxyhaemoglobin and how is it formed?
What is carboxyhaemoglobin and how is it formed?
Carboxyhaemoglobin is formed when carbon dioxide combines with the globin part of haemoglobin. The reaction depends on the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. When the partial pressure of carbon dioxide is higher in the tissues than in the blood, carboxyhaemoglobin is formed. In the lungs, where the partial pressure of carbon dioxide is higher in the blood than in the tissues, carboxyhaemoglobin releases its carbon dioxide.
Explain the role of carboxyhaemoglobin in transporting carbon dioxide in the blood.
Explain the role of carboxyhaemoglobin in transporting carbon dioxide in the blood.
Carboxyhaemoglobin plays a crucial role in transporting approximately 23% of carbon dioxide in the blood. It binds with carbon dioxide in the tissues and releases it in the lungs, facilitating gas exchange.
How does the balance between the partial pressures of carbon dioxide in the blood and tissues determine the direction of the carboxyhaemoglobin reaction?
How does the balance between the partial pressures of carbon dioxide in the blood and tissues determine the direction of the carboxyhaemoglobin reaction?
The balance between the partial pressures of carbon dioxide in the blood and tissues determines whether carboxyhaemoglobin formation or release occurs. When the partial pressure of carbon dioxide is higher in the tissues, carboxyhaemoglobin is formed. In contrast, when the partial pressure is higher in the blood, carboxyhaemoglobin releases its carbon dioxide.
