Which of the following reactions prevails in red blood cells traveling through alveolar capillaries? (Hb = hemoglobin)
A) Hb + 4 O2 → Hb(O2)4
B) Hb(O2)4 → Hb + 4 O2
C) CO2 + H2O → H2CO3
D) H2CO3 → H+ + HCO3−
E) Hb + 4 CO2 → Hb(CO2)4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When red blood cells travel through alveolar capillaries, oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the red blood cells. This leads to the reaction where hemoglobin binds with oxygen to form oxyhemoglobin (Hb(O2)4). This reaction is favored in the lungs due to the higher concentration of oxygen in the alveoli compared to the red blood cells. Therefore, option A is the best choice.

Which of the Following Reactions Prevails in Red Blood Cells