3.3.4.1

Question 1

Structure of haemoglobin

Answer 1

A conjugated protein consisting of 4 polypeptide chains
Each chain (globin) contains a haem group in centre
Each haem group can reversible bind with a single molecule of oxygen
Has a high affinity for oxygen

Question 2

Haemoglobin function

Answer 2

Blood pigment
Loads O2 where conc high and unloads where conc low
Increases capacity of O2 able to dissolve in liquid

Question 3

Location of haemoglobin

Answer 3

In red blood cells as small enough to be filtered out of blood by kidneys and lost in urine

Question 4

Positive cooperativity

Answer 4

Combination of first haem group with oxygen increases affinity for oxygen with second, then third, then fourth due to change in shape
Known as cooperativity