A English

Transport of gases Questions in English

Class 11 Biology · Breathing and Exchange of Gases · Transport of gases

251+

Questions

English

Language

100%

With Solutions

Showing 50 of 251 questions in English

1
MediumMCQ
Carbon dioxide is transported via blood to lungs mostly in which form?
A
As carbaminohaemoglobin and as carbonic acid
B
In the form of carbonic acid only
C
In combination with haemoglobin only
D
As bicarbonates

Solution

(D) Carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. As bicarbonates $(HCO_3^-)$: About $70\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported in this form.
$2$. As carbaminohaemoglobin: About $20-25\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported by binding with haemoglobin.
$3$. Dissolved in plasma: About $7\%$ of $CO_2$ is carried in a dissolved state through blood plasma.
Since the majority of $CO_2$ is transported as bicarbonates,the correct answer is $D$.
2
MediumMCQ
Oxy-haemoglobin dissociates into oxygen and deoxy-haemoglobin at
A
Low $O_2$ pressure in tissue
B
High $O_2$ pressure in tissue
C
Equal $O_2$ pressure inside and outside tissue
D
All times irrespective of $O_2$ pressure

Solution

(A) The dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin into oxygen and deoxyhaemoglobin is primarily determined by the partial pressure of oxygen $(P_{O_2})$.
In metabolically active tissues,the $P_{O_2}$ is significantly lower compared to the blood.
According to the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve,a decrease in $P_{O_2}$ promotes the release of oxygen from haemoglobin.
Therefore,oxyhaemoglobin dissociates into oxygen and deoxyhaemoglobin at low $O_2$ pressure in the tissues.
3
MediumMCQ
If the concentration of $CO_2$ is higher,the oxygen dissociation curve will shift towards:
A
Right
B
Left
C
Central
D
None of these

Solution

(A) The oxygen dissociation curve represents the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen $(pO_2)$ and the percentage saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen.
An increase in the concentration of $CO_2$ (hypercapnia) leads to a decrease in blood $pH$ (Bohr effect).
This shift in $pH$ and the presence of $CO_2$ reduces the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen.
Consequently,the oxygen dissociation curve shifts to the right,indicating that oxygen is released more easily from hemoglobin to the tissues.
4
MediumMCQ
The ratio of oxyhaemoglobin and haemoglobin in the blood is based upon:
A
Bicarbonate tension
B
Carbon dioxide tension
C
Carbonate tension
D
Oxygen tension

Solution

(D) The binding of oxygen with haemoglobin is primarily determined by the partial pressure of oxygen $(pO_2)$.
According to the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve,as the partial pressure of oxygen increases,the percentage saturation of haemoglobin with oxygen (forming oxyhaemoglobin) increases.
Conversely,a decrease in $pO_2$ leads to the dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin into haemoglobin and oxygen.
Therefore,the ratio of oxyhaemoglobin to haemoglobin is directly dependent on the oxygen tension $(pO_2)$.
5
MediumMCQ
The ${O_2}$ dissociation curve is:
A
Sigmoid
B
Slope
C
Straight line
D
Parabola

Solution

(A) The ${O_2}$ dissociation curve for haemoglobin is sigmoid in shape.
This $S$-shaped curve is obtained when the percentage saturation of haemoglobin with ${O_2}$ is plotted against the partial pressure of oxygen $({pO_2})$.
6
MediumMCQ
Haemoglobin forms a compound with
A
$CO_2$
B
$A$ and $D$ both
C
$NO_2$
D
$O_2$

Solution

(B) Haemoglobin is a respiratory pigment present in red blood cells that binds with gases to facilitate their transport.
$1$. Haemoglobin binds with $O_2$ to form oxyhaemoglobin $(HbO_2)$.
$2$. Haemoglobin also binds with $CO_2$ to form carbaminohaemoglobin $(HbCO_2)$.
Since haemoglobin forms compounds with both $O_2$ and $CO_2$,the correct option is $B$.
7
MediumMCQ
Oxygen is transported to every cell of the body through:
A
$RBC$
B
$WBC$
C
$RBC$ and $WBC$
D
$RBC$ and hormones

Solution

(A) Oxygen is primarily transported in the blood by binding with hemoglobin,a red pigment present in the Red Blood Cells $(RBCs)$.
Approximately $97\%$ of oxygen is transported by $RBCs$ in the form of oxyhemoglobin,while the remaining $3\%$ is carried in a dissolved state through the blood plasma.
$WBCs$ (White Blood Cells) are primarily involved in the immune response and do not play a role in the transport of respiratory gases.
Therefore,$RBC$ is the correct medium for oxygen transport.
8
MediumMCQ
During respiration,$CO_2$ is transported in the form of:
A
Dissolved in plasma
B
Sodium carbonate
C
$KHCO_3$
D
Partly dissolved in plasma and partly in the form of sodium and potassium bicarbonate

Solution

(D) During respiration,$CO_2$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. As dissolved gas in plasma (about $7\%$).
$2$. As bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$ in plasma,combined with sodium $(Na^+)$ and potassium $(K^+)$ ions to form $NaHCO_3$ and $KHCO_3$ (about $70\%$).
$3$. As carbaminohemoglobin (about $23\%$).
Therefore,the correct option is $(d)$ as it covers the dissolved state and the bicarbonate transport mechanism.
9
MediumMCQ
Oxyhaemoglobin is an unstable compound because
A
Haemoglobin is a complex pigmented protein
B
There is a physical bonding between oxygen and haemoglobin
C
There is a chemical bonding between oxygen and haemoglobin
D
One molecule of haemoglobin combines with four molecules of oxygen

Solution

(C) Oxyhaemoglobin is an unstable compound because the binding of oxygen with haemoglobin is a reversible chemical process.
Haemoglobin is an iron-containing respiratory pigment found in red blood cells.
It is a tetrameric conjugated protein that binds with four oxygen molecules through coordinate covalent bonds to form oxyhaemoglobin.
Because this bond is reversible,it allows haemoglobin to pick up oxygen in the lungs and release it efficiently in the tissues.
10
MediumMCQ
Body tissues obtain ${O_2}$ from oxyhaemoglobin because of its dissociation caused by:
A
High ${O_2}$ concentration
B
Low ${O_2}$ concentration
C
Low ${O_2}$ and high $CO_2$ concentration
D
High $CO_2$ concentration

Solution

(C) The dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin into haemoglobin and oxygen occurs primarily in the body tissues.
This process is facilitated by the Bohr effect,where the partial pressure of oxygen $(pO_2)$ is low and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide $(pCO_2)$ is high in the tissues compared to the lungs.
Additionally,factors like increased hydrogen ion concentration (lower pH) and higher temperature in the tissues further promote the release of oxygen from oxyhaemoglobin.
Therefore,the correct condition for dissociation is low ${O_2}$ and high $CO_2$ concentration.
11
EasyMCQ
The process by which chloride ions pass into $R.B.C.$ and bicarbonate ions pass out is called
A
Bicarbonate shift
B
Chloride shift
C
Buffer system
D
Enzyme shift

Solution

(B) The process is known as the $Chloride \ shift$ or $Hamburger \ phenomenon$.
To maintain the electrostatic neutrality of the plasma,chloride ions $(Cl^-)$ diffuse from the plasma into the $R.B.C.s$ in exchange for bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$ that move out into the plasma.
This exchange occurs primarily when oxygenated blood becomes deoxygenated at the tissue level,facilitating the transport of carbon dioxide.
12
EasyMCQ
In mammals,how much $CO_2$ is transported as bicarbonates of sodium and potassium in the blood?
A
$5-10\%$
B
$10-90\%$
C
$70-72\%$
D
$90-95\%$

Solution

(C) The transport of $CO_2$ in the blood occurs in three forms:
$1$. About $7\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported in a dissolved state through the blood plasma.
$2$. About $20-25\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported as carbaminohaemoglobin bound to haemoglobin.
$3$. About $70\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported as bicarbonates (mainly sodium and potassium bicarbonates) in the blood plasma.
Therefore,the correct percentage range is $70-72\%$.
13
EasyMCQ
In which form are bicarbonates carried in the blood plasma?
A
Magnesium bicarbonate
B
Potassium bicarbonate
C
Sodium bicarbonate
D
Sodium carbonate

Solution

(C) Approximately $70\%$ of $CO_2$ is transported from tissues to the lungs in the form of bicarbonates $(HCO_3^-)$.
In the blood plasma,these bicarbonate ions are primarily carried as sodium bicarbonate $(NaHCO_3)$.
Carbon dioxide reacts with water in the presence of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase to form carbonic acid,which then dissociates into hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions. These ions then combine with sodium ions in the plasma to form sodium bicarbonate.
14
MediumMCQ
If ${O_2}$ concentration in tissue was almost as high as at the respiratory surface,what would happen?
A
Oxyhaemoglobin would dissociate to supply ${O_2}$ to the tissue.
B
Haemoglobin would combine with more ${O_2}$ at the respiratory surface.
C
Oxyhaemoglobin would not dissociate to supply ${O_2}$ to the tissue.
D
${CO_2}$ will interfere with the ${O_2}$ transport.

Solution

(C) The dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin into haemoglobin and ${O_2}$ depends on the partial pressure gradient of ${O_2}$ between the blood and the tissues.
In normal physiological conditions,the partial pressure of ${O_2}$ $(pO_2)$ is high in the alveoli (respiratory surface) and low in the tissues,which facilitates the release of ${O_2}$ from oxyhaemoglobin to the tissues.
If the ${O_2}$ concentration (and thus $pO_2$) in the tissue were as high as at the respiratory surface,there would be no partial pressure gradient.
Without this gradient,oxyhaemoglobin would not dissociate,and ${O_2}$ would not be released to the tissues.
15
MediumMCQ
During one circulation of blood from lungs to the tissues and back through the circulatory system,the percentage of haemoglobin giving up its oxygen to the tissues is (in $\%$)
A
$50$
B
$25$
C
$75$
D
$80$

Solution

(B) Under normal physiological conditions,arterial blood contains approximately $19 \text{ ml}$ of $O_2$ per $100 \text{ ml}$ of blood.
Venous blood returning from the tissues contains approximately $14 \text{ ml}$ of $O_2$ per $100 \text{ ml}$ of blood.
This indicates that $5 \text{ ml}$ of $O_2$ is delivered to the tissues for every $100 \text{ ml}$ of blood.
The percentage of oxygen released by haemoglobin is calculated as: $(5 \text{ ml} / 19 \text{ ml}) \times 100 \approx 26.3 \%$.
Therefore,the closest standard value accepted in biological contexts for this exchange is $25 \%$.
16
MediumMCQ
Chloride shift is essential for the transport of
A
$CO_2$ and $O_2$
B
$N_2$
C
$CO_2$
D
$O_2$

Solution

(C) The chloride shift,also known as the $Hamburger$ phenomenon,is a process that occurs in the blood to facilitate the transport of $CO_2$.
When $CO_2$ enters the red blood cells,it reacts with water to form carbonic acid $(H_2CO_3)$,which dissociates into bicarbonate $(HCO_3^-)$ and hydrogen ions $(H^+)$.
To maintain electrical neutrality as bicarbonate ions diffuse out of the red blood cells into the plasma,chloride ions $(Cl^-)$ move from the plasma into the red blood cells.
This exchange is essential for the efficient transport of $CO_2$ from the tissues to the lungs in the form of bicarbonate ions.
17
MediumMCQ
In lungs,there is a definite exchange of ions between $RBC$ and plasma. The removal of $CO_2$ from the blood involves:
A
Influx of $Cl^-$ ions into $RBC$
B
Influx of $HCO_3^-$ ions into $RBC$
C
Efflux of $Cl^-$ ions into $RBC$
D
Efflux of $HCO_3^-$ ions into $RBC$

Solution

(B) In the lungs,the partial pressure of $CO_2$ $(pCO_2)$ is low,which triggers the reversal of the chloride shift (Hamburger phenomenon).
$HCO_3^-$ ions move from the plasma into the $RBC$ in exchange for $Cl^-$ ions moving out of the $RBC$ into the plasma.
Inside the $RBC$,$HCO_3^-$ combines with $H^+$ to form $H_2CO_3$,which is then converted into $H_2O$ and $CO_2$ by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.
This $CO_2$ then diffuses out of the $RBC$ and into the alveoli to be exhaled.
Therefore,the removal of $CO_2$ involves the influx of $HCO_3^-$ ions into the $RBC$.
18
MediumMCQ
Choose the wrong statement.
A
Respiratory pigments are coloured pigments.
B
Respiratory pigments have special affinity for respiratory gases.
C
Respiratory pigments are the coloured proteins which contain a metallic ion.
D
None of the above.

Solution

(D) Respiratory pigments are specialized molecules that facilitate the transport of respiratory gases like $O_2$ and $CO_2$ in the blood.
$1$. They are indeed coloured pigments (e.g.,hemoglobin is red).
$2$. They possess a high affinity for binding with respiratory gases.
$3$. They are conjugated proteins containing a metal ion (e.g.,$Fe^{2+}$ in hemoglobin,$Cu^{2+}$ in hemocyanin).
Since all the provided statements ($A$,$B$,and $C$) are scientifically correct,the correct choice is $D$.
19
MediumMCQ
Under a given concentration in blood,dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin will increase if
A
$pH$ of blood falls
B
$pH$ of blood rises
C
$CO_2$ concentration in blood falls
D
Free fatty acid concentration in blood falls

Solution

(A) The dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin is governed by the Bohr effect.
According to the Bohr effect,an increase in $CO_2$ concentration,an increase in $H^+$ ion concentration (which leads to a decrease in $pH$),and an increase in temperature shift the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve to the right.
This shift indicates a decrease in the affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen,thereby promoting the dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin.
Therefore,if the $pH$ of the blood falls (becomes more acidic),the dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin increases to release oxygen into the tissues.
20
MediumMCQ
Which of the following statements correctly defines the $Bohr$ effect?
A
Rise in $P_{CO_2}$ with a decrease in $CO_2$ concentration.
B
Rise in $P_{CO_2}$ with an increase in $CO_2$ concentration.
C
Rise in $P_{CO_2}$ with an increase in $CO_2$ and decrease in $P_{O_2}$.
D
Shift of the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve to the right due to increased $CO_2$ concentration or decreased $pH$.

Solution

(D) The $Bohr$ effect describes the phenomenon where an increase in $CO_2$ concentration or a decrease in $pH$ (increased acidity) reduces the affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen.
This shift in the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve to the right facilitates the release of oxygen to the tissues where metabolic activity is high.
Therefore,the $Bohr$ effect is essentially the effect of $CO_2$ and $H^+$ ions on the oxygen-binding capacity of haemoglobin.
21
EasyMCQ
The major fraction of $CO_2$ released during cellular respiration is transported by the blood to the lung capillaries as:
A
In combination with haemoglobin
B
As free $CO_2$
C
As carbonic acid or $H_2CO_3$
D
In the form of bicarbonate ions

Solution

(D) During cellular respiration,$CO_2$ is produced as a metabolic waste product. It is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. Dissolved in plasma $(7\%)$.
$2$. Bound to haemoglobin as carbaminohaemoglobin $(20-25\%)$.
$3$. As bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$ in plasma $(70\%)$.
Therefore,the major fraction of $CO_2$ is transported in the form of bicarbonate ions.
22
MediumMCQ
In lungs,in order to facilitate the removal of $CO_2$ from the blood,there is an exchange of ions between $RBC$ and the plasma which involves the movement of:
A
Chloride ions from $RBC$ to plasma
B
$Cl^-$ ions from plasma to $RBC$
C
Bicarbonate ions from $RBC$ to plasma
D
$Cl^-$ and bicarbonate ions as in $(a)$ and $(b)$

Solution

(A) In the lungs,the process is the reverse of the chloride shift (Hamburger phenomenon) that occurs in the tissues.
At the level of the lungs,the partial pressure of $CO_2$ is low.
$HCO_3^-$ ions move from the plasma into the $RBC$ to combine with $H^+$ ions to form $H_2CO_3$,which then dissociates into $H_2O$ and $CO_2$ to be exhaled.
To maintain electrical neutrality,$Cl^-$ ions move from the $RBC$ back into the plasma.
Therefore,the movement involves chloride ions moving from $RBC$ to plasma.
23
MediumMCQ
Blood transports $CO_2$ in which of the following forms?
A
$NaHCO_3$
B
Carbonic acid
C
$Hb-CO_2$ (Carbaminohemoglobin)
D
All of the above

Solution

(D) $CO_2$ is transported in the blood in three main forms:
$1$. As bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$,primarily as sodium bicarbonate $(NaHCO_3)$ in the plasma,which accounts for about $70\%$ of $CO_2$ transport.
$2$. As carbaminohemoglobin $(Hb-CO_2)$,where $CO_2$ binds to the amino group of hemoglobin,accounting for about $20-25\%$ of transport.
$3$. Dissolved in plasma as carbonic acid $(H_2CO_3)$ or dissolved $CO_2$,accounting for about $7\%$ of transport.
Since all these forms are involved in the transport of $CO_2$,the correct answer is $D$.
24
MediumMCQ
$CO_2$ is transported in blood primarily as:
A
Carbonates
B
Bicarbonates
C
Carbaminohaemoglobin
D
Carboxyhaemoglobin

Solution

(B) Carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. As dissolved gas in plasma (about $7\%$).
$2$. As carbaminohaemoglobin,where $CO_2$ binds to the amino groups of haemoglobin (about $20-25\%$).
$3$. As bicarbonates $(HCO_3^-)$,which is the primary mode of transport (about $70\%$). The enzyme carbonic anhydrase in red blood cells facilitates the conversion of $CO_2$ and $H_2O$ into $HCO_3^-$ and $H^+$ ions.
25
MediumMCQ
The dissociation curve is associated with
A
Oxygen
B
Oxyhaemoglobin
C
Carbon dioxide
D
Carbonic anhydrase

Solution

(B) The oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve is a sigmoid curve that represents the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen $(pO_2)$ and the percentage saturation of haemoglobin with oxygen.
This curve illustrates how the affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen changes under different physiological conditions,such as changes in $pH$,temperature,and $pCO_2$.
Therefore,the dissociation curve is specifically associated with the binding and release of oxygen from oxyhaemoglobin.
26
MediumMCQ
What is the quantity of $CO_2$ transported in the form of bicarbonates by blood (including both plasma and $RBC$) (in $\%$)?
A
$75$
B
$85$
C
$2$
D
$98$

Solution

(A) Carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. Dissolved in plasma: Approximately $7\%$ of $CO_2$ is carried in a dissolved state through the plasma.
$2$. As carbaminohemoglobin: About $20-25\%$ of $CO_2$ binds with hemoglobin to form carbaminohemoglobin.
$3$. As bicarbonates: The majority of $CO_2$ (approximately $70-75\%$) is transported as bicarbonates $(HCO_3^-)$ in the plasma and $RBCs$.
Therefore,the correct option is $75\%$.
27
MediumMCQ
When the affinity of $O_2$ and $CO_2$ for haemoglobin is compared,it is:
A
More for $O_2$
B
More for $CO_2$
C
Equal for both
D
Have no affinity at all

Solution

(B) Haemoglobin has a significantly higher affinity for $CO_2$ compared to $O_2$.
In fact,the affinity of haemoglobin for $CO_2$ is approximately $20$ to $25$ times greater than its affinity for $O_2$.
This property is crucial for the transport of $CO_2$ from tissues to the lungs.
28
EasyMCQ
The toxic effect of carbon monoxide is due to its greater affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen, approximately by (in $times$)
A
$2$
B
$20$
C
$200$
D
$1000$

Solution

(C) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ is a poisonous gas that binds to haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin.
Haemoglobin has a significantly higher affinity for $CO$ than for oxygen $(O_2)$.
This affinity is approximately $200$ to $210$ times greater for $CO$ than for $O_2$.
Because of this, even small concentrations of $CO$ can effectively block oxygen transport in the blood, leading to tissue hypoxia and potential death.
29
MediumMCQ
Blood analysis of a patient reveals an unusually high quantity of carboxyhaemoglobin content. Which of the following conclusions is most likely to be correct?
A
Carbon dioxide
B
Carbon monoxide
C
Carbon disulphide
D
Chloroform

Solution

(B) Carboxyhaemoglobin is formed when haemoglobin binds with carbon monoxide $(CO)$.
Carbon monoxide has an affinity for haemoglobin that is approximately $200$ to $250$ times higher than that of oxygen.
When $CO$ binds to haemoglobin,it forms a stable compound called carboxyhaemoglobin,which prevents oxygen from binding to the haemoglobin,leading to hypoxia and potentially fatal conditions.
Therefore,the presence of high levels of carboxyhaemoglobin indicates carbon monoxide poisoning.
30
MediumMCQ
How much $CO_2$ is added to every $100\,ml$ of blood by the tissues (in $,ml$)?
A
$52.1$
B
$3.7$
C
$40$
D
$20$

Solution

(B) The blood arriving at the tissues is oxygenated and contains approximately $48\,ml$ of $CO_2$ per $100\,ml$ of blood.
As blood passes through the tissues,it picks up $CO_2$ produced by cellular respiration.
On average,every $100\,ml$ of blood receives $3.7\,ml$ of $CO_2$ from the tissues,resulting in venous blood containing approximately $51.7\,ml$ of $CO_2$ per $100\,ml$ of blood.
Therefore,the amount of $CO_2$ added to the blood by the tissues is $3.7\,ml$ per $100\,ml$.
31
MediumMCQ
Haemoglobin has the maximum affinity with which of the following?
A
$CO_2$
B
$NH_3$
C
$O_2$
D
$CO$

Solution

(D) Haemoglobin $(Hb)$ is a respiratory pigment that carries gases in the blood.
It binds with oxygen to form oxyhaemoglobin.
However,the affinity of haemoglobin for carbon monoxide $(CO)$ is approximately $200$ to $250$ times greater than its affinity for oxygen $(O_2)$.
When $CO$ is inhaled,it binds firmly with haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin,which is a very stable compound.
This prevents haemoglobin from binding with oxygen,leading to tissue hypoxia and potentially fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.
32
MediumMCQ
In which form is $CO_2$ mostly carried by blood?
A
Bicarbonate ions
B
Carbonic acid
C
Carbamino compound
D
Carboxyhaemoglobin

Solution

(A) $CO_2$ is transported by blood in three forms:
$1$. Approximately $7\%$ is dissolved in plasma.
$2$. Approximately $23\%$ is transported as carbaminohaemoglobin.
$3$. Approximately $70\%$ is transported as bicarbonate ions.
Therefore,the majority of $CO_2$ is carried in the form of bicarbonate ions.
33
EasyMCQ
Hamburger phenomenon is also known as
A
Hydrogen shift mechanism
B
Chloride shift mechanism
C
Carbonic acid shift mechanism
D
Sodium-potassium pump

Solution

(B) The Hamburger phenomenon is also known as the chloride shift.
To maintain the electrostatic neutrality of the plasma,chloride ions $(Cl^-)$ diffuse from the plasma into the $RBCs$ in exchange for bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$ that pass out of the $RBCs$ into the plasma.
This process occurs when oxygenated blood becomes deoxygenated,leading to an increase in the chloride content of the $RBCs$.
34
MediumMCQ
Exposure to carbon monoxide (from coal gas) is extremely dangerous and can kill a patient because
A
The compound carboxyhaemoglobin $(COHb)$ it forms with haemoglobin can gradually clot the blood resulting in circulatory failure
B
$COHb$ reduces the ability of blood to transport oxygen by rupturing a vast majority of erythrocytes
C
$COHb$ greatly modifies the structure of haemoglobin,thus making it lose its affinity for oxygen
D
None of the above

Solution

(C) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ binds to haemoglobin to form a stable compound called carboxyhaemoglobin $(COHb)$.
$CO$ has an affinity for haemoglobin that is approximately $200-250$ times greater than that of oxygen.
Because of this high affinity,$CO$ binds to haemoglobin more readily than oxygen,effectively blocking oxygen binding sites.
This prevents the formation of oxyhaemoglobin,thereby reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and leading to tissue hypoxia and death.
35
MediumMCQ
When a man inhales air containing a normal concentration of ${O_2}$ as well as $CO$,he suffers from suffocation because:
A
$CO$ reacts with ${O_2}$ reducing its percentage in air.
B
Haemoglobin combines with $CO$ instead of ${O_2}$ and the product cannot dissociate.
C
$CO$ affects the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.
D
$CO$ affects the nerves of the lungs.

Solution

(B) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ has approximately $210$ times more affinity for haemoglobin compared to oxygen $({O_2})$.
When $CO$ is inhaled,it binds with haemoglobin to form a very stable compound called carboxyhaemoglobin.
Because this bond is much stronger than the oxyhaemoglobin bond,the haemoglobin is unable to transport oxygen to the body tissues effectively.
This leads to cellular hypoxia,which the body perceives as suffocation.
36
MediumMCQ
The concentration of carbonic acid does not increase in the blood due to the presence of which of the following?
A
$Na^+$
B
$K^+$
C
$Ca^{++}$
D
$Mg^{++}$

Solution

(B) Carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ reacts with water $(H_2O)$ in the presence of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase to form carbonic acid $(H_2CO_3)$.
This reaction is reversible: $CO_2 + H_2O \rightleftharpoons H_2CO_3 \rightleftharpoons H^+ + HCO_3^-$.
In the blood, hemoglobin acts as a buffer. When $H^+$ ions are produced, they are buffered by hemoglobin, preventing a significant rise in acidity.
However, the question refers to the specific role of ions in maintaining acid-base balance. Potassium ions $(K^+)$ play a crucial role in the chloride shift (Hamburger phenomenon) and the exchange of ions across the erythrocyte membrane to maintain electrical neutrality, which helps in regulating the $pH$ and preventing the accumulation of excess carbonic acid in the plasma.
37
MediumMCQ
If $pH$ of blood is artificially changed to $8$,what is most likely to happen?
A
The tissues will not get oxygen as oxyhaemoglobin will not dissociate into oxygen and haemoglobin.
B
The carbon dioxide will not be released from carbonic acid and carbonates.
C
The carbonic anhydrase will be completely inhibited.
D
It will generate carbon monoxide and the animal will die of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Solution

(A) The affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen is influenced by the $pH$ of the blood,a phenomenon known as the Bohr effect.
An increase in $pH$ (alkalinity) shifts the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve to the left,which increases the affinity of haemoglobin for oxygen.
At a $pH$ of $8$,the blood becomes more alkaline than the normal physiological $pH$ $(7.4)$.
This increased affinity makes it difficult for oxyhaemoglobin to release oxygen at the tissue level.
Therefore,the tissues will not receive sufficient oxygen because oxyhaemoglobin will not dissociate efficiently into oxygen and haemoglobin.
38
MediumMCQ
Oxygen is transported by
A
Blood plasma
B
$RBCs$
C
Leucocytes
D
Thrombocytes

Solution

(B) Oxygen is primarily transported in the blood by binding to hemoglobin,a respiratory pigment present in the $RBCs$ (Red Blood Cells).
Approximately $97\%$ of oxygen is transported by $RBCs$ in the form of oxyhemoglobin,while the remaining $3\%$ is carried in a dissolved state through the blood plasma.
39
MediumMCQ
In blood,$CO_2$ is mainly transported through
A
Haemoglobin
B
Lymph
C
$RBC$
D
Plasma

Solution

(D) Carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. As dissolved gas in plasma $(7\%)$.
$2$. As carbamino-haemoglobin bound to haemoglobin $(20-25\%)$.
$3$. As bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$ in plasma $(70\%)$.
Since the majority of $CO_2$ is transported as bicarbonate ions dissolved in the plasma,the correct answer is plasma.
40
MediumMCQ
If haemoglobin is replaced by haemocyanin,the blood will carry
A
Less oxygen
B
More oxygen
C
No oxygen
D
Same amount of oxygen

Solution

(A) Haemoglobin contains an iron-based pigment called haem,which has a high affinity for oxygen,allowing it to easily bind and transport oxygen in the blood.
In contrast,haemocyanin is a copper-containing respiratory pigment.
Copper-based pigments generally have a lower affinity for oxygen compared to iron-based haemoglobin.
Therefore,if haemoglobin is replaced by haemocyanin,the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood would decrease,meaning it will carry less oxygen.
41
MediumMCQ
Although much $CO_2$ is carried in the blood,yet blood does not become acidic. This is because
A
In $CO_2$ transport,blood buffers play an important role
B
$CO_2$ combines with water to form $H_2CO_3$ which is neutralized by $H_2CO_3$
C
$CO_2$ is continuously diffused through the tissues and is not allowed to accumulate
D
$CO_2$ is absorbed by leucocytes

Solution

(A) Blood contains various buffer systems,primarily the bicarbonate buffer system $(HCO_3^-/H_2CO_3)$ and hemoglobin,which help maintain the $pH$ of the blood within a narrow range $(7.35-7.45)$.
When $CO_2$ enters the blood,it reacts with water to form carbonic acid $(H_2CO_3)$,which dissociates into $H^+$ and $HCO_3^-$.
The buffer systems neutralize the excess $H^+$ ions,preventing a significant drop in $pH$ and keeping the blood from becoming acidic.
42
EasyMCQ
The toxic effect of carbon monoxide is due to its greater affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen by (approx.) (in $times$)
A
$200$
B
$2$
C
$1000$
D
$20$

Solution

(A) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ binds to haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin $(HbCO)$.
The affinity of haemoglobin for $CO$ is approximately $200$ to $250$ times greater than its affinity for oxygen $(O_2)$.
Due to this high affinity, $CO$ effectively displaces oxygen from haemoglobin, leading to hypoxia and tissue damage.
43
MediumMCQ
$CO$ is more toxic than $CO_2$ because:
A
It affects the nervous system
B
It damages lungs
C
It reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin
D
It forms acid with water

Solution

(C) $CO$ (Carbon monoxide) is significantly more toxic than $CO_2$ (Carbon dioxide) because it has a much higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen does.
When $CO$ is inhaled,it binds to hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin.
This binding is much stronger and more stable than the binding of oxygen to hemoglobin.
As a result,the amount of hemoglobin available to transport oxygen to the body's tissues is drastically reduced,leading to tissue hypoxia and potentially fatal consequences.
44
MediumMCQ
How does carbon monoxide,emitted by automobiles,prevent the transport of oxygen in the body tissues?
A
By changing oxygen into carbon dioxide
B
By destroying the haemoglobin
C
By forming a stable compound with haemoglobin
D
By obstructing the reaction of oxygen with haemoglobin

Solution

(C) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ has a much higher affinity for haemoglobin than oxygen. When inhaled,it binds with haemoglobin to form a very stable compound called carboxyhaemoglobin. This process prevents haemoglobin from binding with oxygen,thereby blocking oxygen transport to the body tissues. Prolonged inhalation of $CO$ can lead to severe hypoxia and even death.
45
EasyMCQ
What is hemoglobin?
A
Vitamin
B
Skin pigment
C
Blood vessel
D
Respiratory pigment

Solution

(D) Hemoglobin is a complex protein found in red blood cells $(RBCs)$.
It contains iron and acts as a respiratory pigment because it binds with oxygen to form oxyhemoglobin,facilitating the transport of oxygen from the lungs to various tissues in the body.
Therefore,it is classified as a respiratory pigment.
46
MediumMCQ
Why is $CO$ (carbon monoxide) poisonous to humans?
A
$CO$ affects the nerves of the lungs.
B
$CO$ affects the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm.
C
$CO$ reacts with oxygen in the air,reducing its percentage.
D
Hemoglobin binds with $CO$ instead of $O_2$,and the resulting product does not dissociate.

Solution

(D) Carbon monoxide $(CO)$ has a very high affinity for hemoglobin,approximately $200$ to $250$ times greater than that of oxygen $(O_2)$.
When $CO$ is inhaled,it binds with hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin $(HbCO)$.
This binding is much more stable than oxyhemoglobin $(HbO_2)$,meaning the $CO$ does not easily dissociate from the hemoglobin.
As a result,the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is significantly reduced,leading to tissue hypoxia and potentially death.
47
MediumMCQ
The binding of oxygen with hemoglobin is primarily related to which of the following?
A
Partial pressure of $O_2$
B
Partial pressure of $CO_2$
C
Concentration of $H^+$ ions
D
Temperature

Solution

(A) The binding of oxygen with hemoglobin is primarily related to the partial pressure of $O_2$.
According to the oxygen dissociation curve,the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen increases as the partial pressure of $O_2$ $(pO_2)$ increases.
Other factors like $pCO_2$,$H^+$ ion concentration,and temperature also affect this binding (as seen in the Bohr effect),but the primary factor determining the formation of oxyhemoglobin is the partial pressure of $O_2$.
48
EasyMCQ
What percentage of $CO_2$ is transported in the form of bicarbonate in the blood (in $\%$)?
A
$7$
B
$23$
C
$50$
D
$70$

Solution

(D) In the human body,carbon dioxide $(CO_2)$ is transported in the blood in three forms:
$1$. Dissolved in plasma: Approximately $7\%$ of $CO_2$ is carried in a dissolved state.
$2$. As carbaminohemoglobin: About $20-25\%$ of $CO_2$ binds with hemoglobin to form carbaminohemoglobin.
$3$. As bicarbonate ions $(HCO_3^-)$: The majority of $CO_2$,approximately $70\%$,is transported in the form of bicarbonate ions in the plasma.
Therefore,the correct percentage is $70\%$.
49
MediumMCQ
Which of the following factors shift the $HbO_2$ dissociation curve to the right?
A
$(a)$ Increase in $PCO_2$
B
$(b)$ Decrease in temperature
C
$(c)$ Increase in $H^+$ (decrease in $pH$)
D
$(d)$ Decrease in $2,3-DPG$ (diphosphoglyceric acid)

Solution

(C) The oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve shifts to the right under conditions that promote the release of oxygen from hemoglobin,a phenomenon known as the $Bohr$ effect.
Factors that shift the curve to the right include:
$1$. Increase in $PCO_2$ (partial pressure of carbon dioxide).
$2$. Increase in $H^+$ concentration (which corresponds to a decrease in $pH$).
$3$. Increase in temperature.
$4$. Increase in $2,3-DPG$ (diphosphoglyceric acid).
Therefore,factors $(a)$ and $(c)$ are correct,while $(b)$ and $(d)$ would shift the curve to the left.
50
MediumMCQ
The chloride shift refers to the movement of $Cl^-$ from:
A
Plasma to $RBC$
B
$RBC$ to plasma
C
Both
D
None

Solution

(A) The chloride shift,also known as the $Hamburger$ phenomenon,occurs in the blood to maintain electrical neutrality during the transport of $CO_2$.
When $CO_2$ enters $RBCs$,it reacts with water to form carbonic acid $(H_2CO_3)$,which dissociates into $H^+$ and $HCO_3^-$.
To maintain the ionic balance,$HCO_3^-$ ions diffuse out of the $RBC$ into the plasma,and an equivalent number of $Cl^-$ ions move from the plasma into the $RBC$ to maintain electrical neutrality.
Therefore,the chloride shift refers to the movement of $Cl^-$ from plasma to $RBC$.

Breathing and Exchange of Gases — Transport of gases · Frequently Asked Questions

1Are these Breathing and Exchange of Gases questions useful for JEE and NEET?

Yes. All questions in this section are mapped to JEE Main and NEET exam patterns. Previous year questions from JEE Main, NEET, GUJCET and state-level exams are included with full solutions.

2Can I switch to Hindi or Gujarati for these questions?

Yes. Use the language tabs in the hero section or the sidebar to view the same questions and solutions in English, Hindi or Gujarati.

3How do I generate a question paper from this subtopic?

Use the Vedclass Exam Paper Generator — select the chapter and subtopic, set difficulty, and generate Sets A, B, C, D automatically. First 3 chapters of every subject are free.

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D papers from this chapter in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo
For Teachers & Institutes

Generate a Breathing and Exchange of Gases Exam Paper in 2 Minutes

Select subtopic & difficulty — Sets A, B, C, D auto-generated with No Repeat logic.

First 3 chapters of every subject are free — no payment required.