Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide

Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide — practice question

In mammals, haemoglobin transports oxygen, while myoglobin stores oxygen in muscles. Fig. 4.1 gives the oxygen dissociation curves for myoglobin, fetal haemoglobin and adult haemoglobin.
(a(i))[1]

Name the cells that contain haemoglobin.

(a(ii))[1]

From Fig. 4.1, determine the percentage saturation of myoglobin and adult haemoglobin at a partial pressure of oxygen of $3\text{ kPa}$.

(a(iii))[2]

There is a marked gap between the percentage saturation of myoglobin and adult haemoglobin at low partial pressures of oxygen. Suggest reasons for this.

(b(i))[2]

Explain, using Fig. 4.1, why the difference in oxygen-binding affinity between fetal and adult haemoglobin is important.

(b(ii))[1]

Suggest why HPFH usually has no symptoms.

(c)[2]

Sketch on Fig. 4.2 the dissociation curve that would be expected for adult haemoglobin when the concentration of carbon dioxide is increased.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: red blood cells OR erythrocytes

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