Question

Describe the structure of haemoglobin and explain how its 3 dimensional structure is achieved to enable it to carry oxygen molecules.

Answer 1

Hemoglobin is a protein composed of four subunits and contains iron ions that bind oxygen. The 3D structure of hemoglobin is achieved through the arrangement of ribbon-like structures forming helices and linear structures composed of red globules.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structure of hemoglobin consists of four subunits: two alpha subunits and two beta subunits. Each subunit contains an iron ion at its center, which can bind to oxygen molecules. The iron ion changes its oxidation state from +2 to +3 and back again, causing the three-dimensional shape of the hemoglobin molecule to change when oxygen binds to it.

The 3D structure of hemoglobin is achieved through the arrangement of ribbon-like structures forming helices and entangling with one another in a disordered manner. These helical structures, along with linear structures composed of red globules, make up the quaternary structure of hemoglobin.

Answer 2

The fact that haemoglobin have a 'dip-like' sort of thing in the centre, allows them to carry more oxygen because of its increased surface area.

Also, haemoglobin are small and flexible meaning that they can squeeze through the smallest capillaries and deliver oxygen.