Types of Haemoglobin 2

Question 1

Explanation for higher oxygen affinity of haemoglobin in foetus in womb

Answer 1

Oxygen binds to foetal haemoglobin more easily and is more reluctant to dissociate

Question 2

Explanation for higher oxygen affinity of haemoglobin in animal living in low O2 environment

Answer 2

When there isn’t much oxygen available the haemoglobin has to be able to load more oxygen at lower po2 to make sure enough oxygen is absorbed.

Question 3

Why is there a low pO2 at high altitudes?

Answer 3

Low atmospheric pressure

Question 4

What is the haemoglobin’s affinity for O2 in small organisms with high SA:V or organism with high metabolic rate compared to adult human & how does this affect dissociation curve?

Answer 4

Lower affinity - dissociation curve shifts to right

Question 5

Explanation for lower oxygen affinity of haemoglobin for organism with high metabolic rate

Answer 5

Higher metabolic rate = more respiration = greater oxygen demand