Questions of Respiratory System Related

Review Questions of Respiratory System related questions and content

Hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when the BPG level is high is

  • A. greater than hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when the BPG level is low
  • B. less than hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when the BPG level is low
  • C. equal to hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when the BPG level is low
  • D. equal to hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when pH is low
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: less than hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen when the BPG level is low. When the 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (BPG) level is high, it binds to hemoglobin and decreases its affinity for oxygen. This results in easier unloading of oxygen to tissues. In contrast, when the BPG level is low, hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen is higher, making it harder to release oxygen to tissues. Choices A and C are incorrect because high BPG levels decrease hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen, making it less than when BPG levels are low. Choice D is incorrect because pH levels do not directly affect hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen in the context of this question.