Question

How does pH affect hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen?

Answer 1

pH and the affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen:

1. The partial pressures of O₂, CO₂, H+ concentration, and temperature all affect the binding of oxygen and haemoglobin.
2. The synthesis of oxyhaemoglobin is favoured in alveoli (lungs) where pH, pO₂ are all high and pCO₂ is low.
3. The affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen diminishes with a drop in pH and a drop in pO2, resulting in the dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin in tissues.