Question

Which of the following acts as hemoglobin (Hb) in the blood buffer system?

• A. NaHCO₃
• B. H₂Hb
• C. HbCO₂
• D. HbCl

Hint:

Hemoglobin's role in buffering blood pH is crucial, especially in tissues where COâ‚‚ is produced during metabolism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The correct answer is H₂Hb, which refers to deoxygenated hemoglobin.

Deoxygenated hemoglobin (H₂Hb) acts as a buffer in the blood buffer system by binding to hydrogen ions (H⁺) and helping to stabilize the pH of the blood. This occurs because when hemoglobin releases oxygen, it has a higher affinity for hydrogen ions, which allows it to function as a buffer in the tissues, where CO₂ is produced during cellular respiration.

In the lungs, when hemoglobin picks up oxygen (forming HbO₂), it releases the hydrogen ions, and the pH of the blood is regulated. This dynamic exchange of oxygen and hydrogen ions helps maintain the acid-base balance in the blood, which is essential for proper physiological function.