Will O2 passively diffuse and bind with hemoglobin that is less than 1mm from the surface of a blood sample?
The percent of hemoglobin bound with O2 is different at high (10% CO2) and low (5% CO2) CO2 concentrations when the Po2 equals 0mmHg. Is that true?
To answer the first question, we need to understand the concept of passive diffusion. O2 can indeed passively diffuse and bind with hemoglobin molecules. The process of diffusion occurs when molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. In this case, the O2 molecules would move from an area with a higher concentration (in the air or dissolved in the surrounding fluid) to an area with a lower concentration (inside the blood sample). The movement happens until equilibrium is reached, meaning the concentrations are equal on both sides.
Regarding the distance of less than 1mm from the surface of a blood sample, it's important to note that the actual diffusion distance may vary depending on various factors such as temperature, concentration gradient, and surface area. However, in general, O2 can diffuse relatively quickly over short distances, such as within the distance of less than 1mm in a blood sample.
Now, let's address the second question about the percent of hemoglobin bound with O2 under different CO2 concentrations and a Po2 of 0mmHg. The binding of O2 with hemoglobin is influenced by various factors, including CO2 levels. Changes in CO2 concentration affect the pH of the blood, which, in turn, affects the affinity of hemoglobin for O2.
At high CO2 concentrations (10% CO2), the pH of the blood decreases, leading to a lower affinity of hemoglobin for O2. This means that even at a Po2 of 0mmHg, a lower percentage of hemoglobin will be bound with O2.
At low CO2 concentrations (5% CO2), the pH of the blood increases, resulting in a higher affinity of hemoglobin for O2. Consequently, at a Po2 of 0mmHg, a higher percentage of hemoglobin will be bound with O2.
Therefore, it is true that the percent of hemoglobin bound with O2 is different at high and low CO2 concentrations when the Po2 is 0mmHg.