Topic 3- Haemoglobin Flashcards
What type of molecule is haemoglobin?
A protein
What structure does haemoglobin have?
Quaternary- multiple polypeptide chains bonded together
What is haemoglobin called when oxygen is bound?
Oxyhaemoglobin
What is haem group?
An atom of iron enclosed in a ring structure
What is the function of iron in the haem group?
To act as a magnet for oxygen (to form haemoglobin)
What is haemoglobins?
A group of similar structures that occur in a very wide range of different animals
What is the function of haemoglobin?
To carry oxygen around the body
When do haemoglobin molecules combine with oxygen?
When oxygen is present in high concentrations (alveoli in the lungs)
When is the process of oxyhaemoglobin reverse?
When the concentration of oxygen is low (in respiring tissue)
Define affinity
how readily haemoglobin acquires oxygen molecules
Define loading
haemoglobin acquires oxygen molecules
What is partial pressure?
The pressure exerted by a speciic gas in a mixture of other gases
What is the measurement of oxygen concentration?
po2
Define saturation
The extent to which haemoglobin is loaded
What is unloading?
as haemoglobin releases oxygen molecules