Can you explain the oxygen dissociation curve? and the Bohr Shift?

As each O2 molecule binds to the haemoglobin, it alters the shape of the protein --> making subsequent binding more favourable. Therefore the affininity for oxygen will be greater in places with a higher oxygen concentration (i.e. the lungs) and a lower affinity in places where the oxygen concentration is lower (i.e. in muscles). This explains why the adult oxygen dissociation curve is sigmoidal (or S shaped). Would then draw a diagram to explain the Bohr effect on an oxygen dissociation curve

LB
Answered by Louis B. Biology tutor

2431 Views

See similar Biology IB tutors

Related Biology IB answers

All answers ▸

Meselson & Stahl grew E. coli cells in a dense N15 nitrogen medium, then transferred to a lighter N14 nitrogen medium. Describe the observations of their experiment (until the third generation) and use it to explain the mechanism of DNA replication.


Explain the role of each enzyme involved in DNA replication.


Design of experiments to test hypothesis about factors affecting germination.


How does mitosis produce two genetically identical nuclei?


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning