Hemoglobin (Hb) transports oxygen in the

Chapter 18, Problem 115P

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Problem 115P

Hemoglobin (Hb) transports oxygen in the blood:

HbH+(aq)+O2(aq)+H2O(l)→HbO2(aq)+H3O+(aq)

In blood, [H3O+] is held nearly constant at 4×10-8M.

(a) How does the equilibrium position change in the lungs?

(b) How does it change in O2-delicient cells?

(c) Excessive vomiting may lead to metabolic alkalosis, in which [H3O+] in blood decreases. How does this condition affect the ability of Hb to transport O2?

(d) Diabetes mellitus may lead to metabolic acidosis, in which [H3O+] in blood increases. How does this condition affect the ability of Hb to transport O2?