Chapter 7, Problem 3E

(a)

Summary Introduction

To calculate: The fractional saturation of hemoglobin when pO₂ is 20 torr.

Concept introduction: Fractional saturation is the partial fulfillment of the allosteric sites of the protein by the ligand. The ligand in hemoglobin is oxygen. Fractional saturation (Y) is the fraction at which the protein molecules are saturated with the ligand. At Y₅₀, half the protein molecules are bound to ligand and half of proteins and ligands are free, thus equilibrium is achieved. The concentration of gas is mentioned as partial pressure. Torr is the unit of measure for pressure.

(b)

Summary Introduction

To calculate: The fractional saturation of hemoglobin when pO₂ is 40 torr.

Concept introduction: Fractional saturation is the partial fulfillment of the allosteric sites of the protein by the ligand. The ligand in hemoglobin is oxygen. Fractional saturation (Y) is the fraction at which the protein molecules are saturated with the ligand. At Y₅₀, half the protein molecules are bound to ligand, and half of proteins and ligands are free, thus equilibrium is achieved. The concentration of gas is mentioned as partial pressure. Torr is the unit of measure for pressure.

(c)

Summary Introduction

To calculate: The fractional saturation of hemoglobin when pO₂ is 60 torr.

Concept introduction: Fractional saturation is the partial fulfillment of the allosteric sites of the protein by the ligand. The ligand in hemoglobin is oxygen. Fractional saturation (Y) is the fraction at which the protein molecules are saturated with the ligand. At Y₅₀, half the protein molecules are bound to ligand, and half of proteins and ligands are free, thus equilibrium is achieved. The concentration of gas is mentioned as partial pressure. Torr is the unit of measure for pressure.