How does carbon monoxide affect red blood cells (RBCs)?
A) It causes them to shrivel.
B) The hemoglobin within the RBC bind to carbon monoxide.
C) The hemoglobin rejects carbon monoxide.
D) The RBCs clump together.
E) The carbon monoxide converts to carbon dioxide.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hemoglobin within red blood cells has a much higher affinity for carbon monoxide than for oxygen. When carbon monoxide is inhaled, it binds to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which prevents hemoglobin from carrying oxygen effectively. This disrupts the oxygen transport and delivery system, leading to reduced oxygen supply to tissues and organs.

How Does Carbon Monoxide Affect Red Blood Cells (RBCs)