Multiple Choice
In the lungs, the _________ pressure of CO2 causes hemoglobin to _________ CO2 and H+. The _________ pressure of O2 causes O2 to _________ hemoglobin, allowing for its transportation to the tissues.
8. Protein Function
Hemoglobin Binding in Tissues & Lungs
Multiple Choice
How many oxygen molecules can bind to a single molecule of hemoglobin?
A
6
B
2
C
4
D
1
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen. It consists of four subunits, each containing a heme group capable of binding one oxygen molecule.
Recognize the role of the heme group: Each heme group contains an iron ion (Fe²⁺) at its center, which can reversibly bind to one oxygen molecule (O₂). This is the key to hemoglobin's oxygen-carrying capacity.
Calculate the total oxygen-binding capacity: Since hemoglobin has four subunits, and each subunit can bind one oxygen molecule, the total number of oxygen molecules that can bind to a single hemoglobin molecule is 4.
Compare the options provided: Review the choices given in the problem (6, 2, 4, 1) and identify the correct answer based on the structural and functional understanding of hemoglobin.
Conclude with the correct answer: The correct answer is 4, as hemoglobin can bind four oxygen molecules due to its four heme groups.
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