Which of the following reactions prevails in red blood cells traveling through alveolar capillaries? (Hb = hemoglobin)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the lungs, oxygen gas (O₂) diffuses across the alveolar capillary membrane and binds to hemoglobin (Hb) within the red blood cells, forming oxyhemoglobin (Hb(O₂)₄). This process is represented by the equation:

Hb + 4 O₂ → Hb(O₂)₄

Option A is the correct choice as it represents the prevailing reaction in red blood cells traveling through alveolar capillaries. Options C and D represent reactions that occur in order to help transport carbon dioxide (CO₂) out of the body, but they are not as directly related to the process of oxygen uptake in the lungs. Option E represents the formation of carbaminohemoglobin, which can occur in red blood cells, but it is not as relevant to the specific context of oxygen uptake in the lungs. Option B represents the reverse process of oxygen release from Hb(O₂)₄, which occurs in the peripheral tissues and not in the lungs.

Which of the Following Reactions Prevails in Red Blood Cells