Haemoglobin

Question 1

The oxygen dissociation curve for haemoglobin shifts to the right during vigorous exercise. Explain the advantage of this shift.

Answer 1

There is a lower affinity for oxygen so the oxygen unloaded more readily to muscles and rapid respiration.

Question 2

The oxygen dissociation curve of a foetus is to the left of its mother. Explain the advantage of this for the fetus.

Answer 2

It has a higher affinity for oxygen so picks up O2 at a low partial pressure so oxygen moves from the mother to the fetus

Question 3

An increase in respiration in the tissues of a mammal affects the oxygen dissociation curve of haemoglobin. Describe and explain how.

Answer 3

There is an increase in CO2 so the curve moves to the

right

Question 4

People living at high altitudes have more red blood cells than people living at sea level. Explain the advantage of this to people living at high altitude.

Answer 4

They will have ore haemoglobin so they cab pick up more oxygen in the lungs

Question 5

Lug worms live in mud which has little oxygen. Explain the advantage to the lugworm of having haemoglobin with a dissociation curve shifted to the left

Answer 5

They have a higher affinityf or O2 at a lower partial pressure of oxygen