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What is haemoglobin? Describe ONE adaptive advantage of haemoglobin. - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 16 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 16
What is haemoglobin? Describe ONE adaptive advantage of haemoglobin.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is haemoglobin? Describe ONE adaptive advantage of haemoglobin. - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 16 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is haemoglobin?
Answer
Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for the transportation of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and the return of carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. It consists of four polypeptide chains, each containing a heme group that can bind to one oxygen molecule, allowing it to carry up to four oxygen molecules at a time.
Step 2
Describe ONE adaptive advantage of haemoglobin.
Answer
One adaptive advantage of haemoglobin is its ability to efficiently pick up and release oxygen based on the oxygen concentration in tissues. This allows organisms to thrive in various environments by ensuring that active tissues receive an adequate supply of oxygen during physical exertion, which is crucial for cellular respiration and energy production.