During heavy exercise, the pO₂ in muscle may drop to 20 mm Hg. Considering the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve below, what is the approximate percent O₂ saturation of hemoglobin in venous blood returning from skeletal muscles during heavy exercise?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve, a pO2 of 20 mm Hg corresponds to approximately 30% saturation of hemoglobin. Therefore, the approximate percent oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in venous blood returning from skeletal muscles during heavy exercise would be approximately 20%.

During Heavy Exercise, the PO2 in Muscle May Drop to 20

During Heavy Exercise, the PO₂ in Muscle May Drop to 20