5) The binding of oxygen to hemoglobin (abbreviated Hb), giving oxyhemoglobin, (
ID: 985344 • Letter: 5
Question
5) The binding of oxygen to hemoglobin (abbreviated Hb), giving oxyhemoglobin, (HbO2) is partially regulated by the concentration of H+ and CO2 in the blood. Although the equilibrium is rather complicated it can be summarized as follows: HbO2 + H+ + CO2 CO2HbH+ + O2 According to Le Chatelier’s principle, what would be the effect of each of the following on the equilibrium:
a.) The production of lactic acid (contains H+) and CO2 in a muscle during exercise?
b.) Inhaling fresh oxygen enriched air?
Explanation / Answer
According to Le Chatlier's principle, Change in amount of a factor that affect equilibrium, the equilibrium position is shifted in that direction that reduce the effect of cahnged factor.
Hence,
(a) The production of Lactic acid and CO2 in a muscle during exercise, increases the concentration of reactants, thus the equilibrium shifts in a direction that consume the increased concentration.
Hence, Equilibrium shifts towards farword direction.
(b) Inhalation oxygen enriched air increase the concentration of products, thus,
Equilibrium shifts towards the backward direction.