Carbonic anhydrase is an enzyme found in red blood cells that catalyzes the conversion of carbon dioxide and water to carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. It does not directly maintain CO2 levels in the lungs or tissues.

Solved

Carbonic Anhydrase

Question 47

Multiple Choice

Carbonic anhydrase

A) combines with water to form carbonic acid.
B) dissociates into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions.
C) is normally found in red blood cells.
D) is responsible for maintaining the high levels of carbon dioxide in the lungs and the low levels of carbon dioxide in the body tissues.
E) includes all of these descriptions.

Correct Answer: