Which of the following best describes the cooperative binding of oxygen to hemoglobin, in terms of the relationship between oxygen binding affinity and the binding of subsequent oxygen molecules?
A
The binding of one oxygen molecule decreases the affinity for subsequent oxygen molecules
B
The binding of one oxygen molecule has no effect on the affinity for subsequent oxygen molecules
C
The binding of one oxygen molecule increases the affinity for subsequent oxygen molecules
✓
D
The binding of one oxygen molecule decreases the affinity for carbon dioxide molecules
Explanation
The cooperative binding of oxygen to hemoglobin means that the binding of one oxygen molecule increases the affinity for subsequent oxygen molecules, allowing for more efficient oxygen transport.
Source
Biochemistry by Stryer
Hematology
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Hard
MEDICAL
Confidence: high
