Can you explain the oxygen dissociation curve? and the Bohr Shift?

As each O2 molecule binds to the haemoglobin, it alters the shape of the protein --> making subsequent binding more favourable. Therefore the affininity for oxygen will be greater in places with a higher oxygen concentration (i.e. the lungs) and a lower affinity in places where the oxygen concentration is lower (i.e. in muscles). This explains why the adult oxygen dissociation curve is sigmoidal (or S shaped). Would then draw a diagram to explain the Bohr effect on an oxygen dissociation curve

Answered by Louis B. Biology tutor

2080 Views

See similar Biology IB tutors

Related Biology IB answers

All answers ▸

How can different phenotypes be generated without changes to the genotype?


What are the stages of primary succession?


What are life functions of a cell?


What are the similarities and differences between mitosis and meiosis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences