Question

Which of the following best explains the Bohr effect in hemoglobin?

• A. Hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen increases in acidic environments.
• B. Increased CO\(_2\) concentration decreases hemoglobin's oxygen-binding capacity.
• C. Hemoglobin binds more oxygen at tissues with high pH.
• D. Bohr effect enhances oxygen loading in the lungs.

Hint:

Remember, the Bohr effect helps oxygen release in tissues where CO\(_2\) is high and pH is low.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

- The Bohr effect refers to the physiological phenomenon where increased CO\(_2\) concentration and lowered pH (acidic conditions) reduce hemoglobin’s affinity for oxygen, facilitating oxygen release in tissues.
- (A) is incorrect because hemoglobin’s affinity decreases, not increases, in acidic environments.
- (B) correctly states that increased CO\(_2\) decreases oxygen binding, matching the Bohr effect.
- (C) is incorrect because hemoglobin binds more oxygen at higher pH (less acidic), which is typically in the lungs, not tissues.
- (D) is incorrect because Bohr effect primarily aids oxygen unloading in tissues, not loading in lungs.
% Final answer Answer: \(\boxed{\text{B}}\)