What is the primary form in which CO₂ is transported in the blood
A)physically dissolved
B)bound to haemoglobin
C)bound to plasma protein
D)as bicarbonate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

CO2 is primarily transported in the blood as bicarbonate (HCO3-) ions. The enzyme carbonic anhydrase inside red blood cells catalyzes the conversion of CO2 and water into carbonic acid (H2CO3), which then dissociates into H+ ions and bicarbonate ions. The bicarbonate ions then leave the red blood cells and enter the plasma to be transported to the lungs for exhalation.

What Is the Primary Form in Which CO₂ Is Transported