An Increase from PH 7

Question

An increase from pH 7.2 to pH 7.4 around hemoglobin causes
A) hemoglobin to release all bound oxygen molecules.
B) an increase in the affinity of hemoglobin to bind oxygen molecules.
C) hemoglobin to denature.
D) an increase in the binding of H⁺ by hemoglobin.
E) hemoglobin to more readily give up its oxygen molecules.

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen is affected by the pH of its environment. As the pH increases (becomes more basic), the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen also increases. This is known as the Bohr effect. Therefore, an increase in pH from 7.2 to 7.4 would increase hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen, making it more likely to bind to oxygen molecules.