How does increased pCO2 affect the release of oxygen?
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Solution
Oxygen dissociation curve:
It is also referred to as the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve.
This graph plots the fraction of saturated hemoglobin on the y-axis against the oxygen present on the x-axis.
The left shift of this curve show association of oxygen with hemoglobin which takes place at the alveolar level.
The main factors that favor the left shift of this curve are:
(a) High pO2
(b) Low pCO2
(c) High pH
(d) Low temperature
5. The right shift of this oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve signifies the dissociation of oxygen with hemoglobin that takes place at the tissue level.
6. The main factors that favor the right shift of this curve are:
(a) Low pO2
(b) High pCO2
(c) Low pH
(d) High temperature
Figure showing the oxygen dissociation curve:
Conclusion:
An increase in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide means dissociation of oxygen with hemoglobin that tends to release oxygen at the tissue level thus, increasing the oxygen released.
