Multiple Choice Questions on Respiratory System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions on Respiratory System related questions and content

Which of the following factors would increase the amount of oxygen discharged by hemoglobin to peripheral tissues?

  • A. decreased temperature
  • B. decreased pH
  • C. increased tissue PO2
  • D. decreased amounts of BPG
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: decreased pH. A decrease in pH (increased acidity) causes a rightward shift in the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve, facilitating the release of oxygen from hemoglobin to peripheral tissues. This occurs due to the Bohr effect, where a decrease in pH weakens the bond between hemoglobin and oxygen, allowing for easier oxygen release.

Incorrect answers:
A: Decreased temperature would actually shift the dissociation curve to the left, making it more difficult for oxygen to be released from hemoglobin.
C: Increased tissue PO2 would lead to less oxygen being released from hemoglobin as the gradient for oxygen release decreases.
D: Decreased amounts of BPG would result in less oxygen being released as BPG helps facilitate oxygen unloading from hemoglobin in tissues.