Summary
Haemoglobin binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues, with the curve shifted by CO2 and pH.
In depth
Each Hb carries four O2. The S-shaped dissociation curve means high saturation at lungs and release in tissues. The Bohr shift moves the curve right in high CO2. Foetal haemoglobin has higher affinity to take oxygen from mother.
Oxygen saturation is measured by pulse oximetry. Haemoglobin also carries some CO2 and nitric oxide. Right shift releases more oxygen.
Key idea: haemoglobin loads in lungs and unloads in tissues thanks to its S-shaped curve.
Frequently asked questions
What is Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport?
Haemoglobin binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues, with the curve shifted by CO2 and pH.
Which area of biology covers Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport, and how advanced is it?
Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport is one of the 51 topics in Human Physiology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Circulatory System, Gas Exchange in Alveoli, Blood Components.
Can you give an example of Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport?
Carbon monoxide binds Hb 200 times more tightly.
What should I learn before Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport?
Work through the Beginner topics in Human Physiology first, such as Homeostasis, Tissues and Organs, Skeletal System, then return to Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport?
The closest topics to Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport are Circulatory System, Gas Exchange in Alveoli, Blood Components, Respiratory System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport. To practise the whole of Human Physiology, use the Human Physiology quiz.
How is Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport different from Circulatory System?
Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport: Haemoglobin binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues, with the curve shifted by CO2 and pH. Circulatory System: The heart, blood vessels and blood that transport materials around the body. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Haemoglobin and Oxygen Transport step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Circulatory System and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Human Physiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.