How does Haemoglobin work?

Haemoglobin is a protein made up of 4 sub-units. Each sub-unit has a molecule of un-oxygenated Iron. Oxygen covalently bonds to the Iron and is thereby carried by the blood as Oxy-haemoglobin. Oxy-haemoglobin releases its oxygen in areas of the body where it needs.

In these areas of the body Carbon Dioxide is present in higher quantities than Oxygen and so binds in the same way to Haemoglobin, thus creating carboxyhaemoglobin. This carries carbon dioxide to the lungs where it is released.

CJ
Answered by Conor J. Biology tutor

10153 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What type of blood does the pulmonary artery contain?


Describe the structure of a plant and explain it's functions. (6 marks)


Why does glucose pass into the kidney but red blood cells and protein do not?


Describe the process of diffusion?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences