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To live, the human body needs a regular supply of oxygen, which is distributed throughout the body by the red pigment, haemoglobin (Hb) - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 8 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 8
To live, the human body needs a regular supply of oxygen, which is distributed throughout the body by the red pigment, haemoglobin (Hb). Hb is carried around the bod... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To live, the human body needs a regular supply of oxygen, which is distributed throughout the body by the red pigment, haemoglobin (Hb) - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 8 - 2005 - Paper 1
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b. Using this equation explain, in terms of equilibrium principles, how a low oxygen concentration can lead to the cells in a human body being deprived of oxygen.
Answer
According to Le Chatelier's principle, if the concentration of a reactant in an equilibrium system is decreased, the equilibrium position will shift to counteract that change. Thus, when the oxygen concentration in the body decreases, the equilibrium shifts to the left:
This shift results in less formation of oxyhaemoglobin and, subsequently, less oxygen is delivered to the cells. As a result, the cells can be deprived of oxygen, impacting their function and viability.
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c. Explain how a high blood count is a useful adaptation to high altitude living.
Answer
At high altitudes, the lower atmospheric pressure results in a reduced availability of oxygen. Individuals with a higher red blood cell count possess a greater concentration of haemoglobin in their blood. This increased haemoglobin concentration enhances the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.
Thus, when people with high red blood cell counts breathe at high altitudes, they can still transport sufficient oxygen to their tissues, mitigating the effects of lower oxygen availability. This adaptation is crucial for maintaining normal physiological function in an environment with less oxygen.