Question

Predict the effects of a mutation in hemoglobin on the ability of hemoglobin to bind oxygen using an oxygen dissociation curve.

Answer 1

A mutation in hemoglobin can either increase or decrease its affinity for oxygen, shifting the oxygen dissociation curve to the left or right respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

A mutation in hemoglobin can affect its ability to bind oxygen. Depending on the specific nature of the mutation, it can either increase or decrease the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen. If the mutation increases the affinity, the oxygen dissociation curve would shift to the left, indicating that hemoglobin has a stronger binding capacity for oxygen. On the other hand, if the mutation decreases the affinity, the curve would shift to the right, signifying reduced binding capacity.