The Dissociated Subunits of Hemoglobin Have a Much Higher Affinity

question 39

Multiple Choice

The dissociated subunits of hemoglobin have a much higher affinity for oxygen than the intact molecule. Which of the following is the most likely explanation?

• A) BPG can interact much more readily with the dissociated subunits.
• B) The iron atom moves out of the plane of the heme.
• C) The heme dissociates from the globin.
• D) The Bohr effect operates more effectively.
• E) The allosteric effects reducing oxygen affinity require the intact tetramer.

---

Definitions:

Problem-Focused

A coping strategy that involves directly confronting or attempting to solve a problem causing stress.

Coping

The process of managing stressful or difficult situations by making efforts to solve problems or by seeking to minimize their effects.

Type A

A personality type characterized by competitiveness, impatience, and a high level of stress.

Type B

A personality type characterized by a more relaxed, less competitive, and less stress-prone behavior pattern compared to Type A.