Explain how oxygen is loaded, transported and unloaded in red blood cells

Haemoglobin is a molecule in red blood cells with a high affinity for oxygen. It consists of 4 haem groups, each of which associate with one oxygen molecule at high pO2, typically in the lungs. Haemoglobin dissociates from oxygen in respiring tissues, where there is a low pO2. Unloading of oxygen is linked to a higher carbon dioxide concentration.

Answered by Biology tutor

13791 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how a new phenotype may arise in the population and increase in frequency using the theory of natural selection.


How does myelination affect nerve impulse conduction velocity?


What are the components and function of the autonomic nervous system in the human body?


When a vaccine is given to a person, it leads to the production of antibodies against a disease-causing organism. Describe how. (5 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning