Question

Bulk of carbon dioxide $\left(C{O}_2\right)$ released from body tissues into the blood is present as

• A. 70% carbaminohemoglobin and 30% as bicarbonate
• B. Carbaminohemoglobin in RBCs
• C. Bicarbonate in blood plasma and RBCs
• D. Free (CO₂) in blood plasma

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Bicarbonate in blood plasma and RBCs

Some of the carbon dioxide is transported dissolved in the plasma. Some carbon dioxide is transported as carbaminohemoglobin. However, most carbon dioxide is transported as bicarbonate. As blood flows through the tissues, carbon dioxide diffuses into red blood cells, where it is converted into bicarbonate.