What is the primary mechanism by which hemoglobin releases oxygen to tissues with low oxygen levels?

A Increased affinity for oxygen due to pH changes
B Decreased affinity for oxygen due to pH changes ✓
C Binding of carbon dioxide to hemoglobin
D Release of oxygen due to increased temperature

Explanation

The primary mechanism by which hemoglobin releases oxygen to tissues with low oxygen levels is through the Bohr effect, where a decrease in pH (increase in acidity) leads to a decrease in hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen, facilitating the release of oxygen to tissues.

Source

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high