How many oxygen molecules can be carried by one hemoglobin molecule?

• A. 4
• B. 8
• C. 1
• D. 2

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen. It consists of four subunits, each containing a heme group capable of binding one oxygen molecule.
2. Recall the binding capacity of each heme group: Each heme group in hemoglobin can bind to one oxygen molecule. Since hemoglobin has four heme groups, it can bind up to four oxygen molecules in total.
3. Relate the number of oxygen molecules to the options provided: Based on the structure and function of hemoglobin, determine which of the given options corresponds to the maximum number of oxygen molecules that can be carried by one hemoglobin molecule.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Analyze the options (4, 8, 1, 2) and eliminate those that do not align with the known binding capacity of hemoglobin. For example, 8 is incorrect because hemoglobin cannot bind more than four oxygen molecules.
5. Select the correct answer: Based on the reasoning above, identify the correct answer as the number of oxygen molecules that can be carried by one hemoglobin molecule.