Respiratory pigments include a metallic ion. What is the ion present in haemocyanin, and what is the role of these ions in respiratory pigments? A) Iron, which increases the O₂ carrying capacity of the pigment B) Magnesium, which increases the O₂ diffusion gradient in pigments C) Molybdenum, which prevents O₂ being outcompeted by CO₂ and CO in binding to the ion transport pigment D) Cadmium, which binds to and strengthens the structural integrity of the pigment, preventing its otherwise rapid degradation due to its inherent instability in a high O₂ environment E) Copper, which increases the O₂ carrying capacity of the pigment

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Haemocyanin contains copper, not iron, and this copper ion plays a crucial role in binding and transporting oxygen, thereby increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the pigment.

Respiratory Pigments Include a Metallic Ion