Question

Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes a reaction that combines which of the following?

a. h2o and o2
b. h2o and co2
c. h and hco3-
d. co2 and o2

Answer 1

Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the reaction that combines water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which is vital for CO₂ transport in the blood. The option (B) is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the reaction that combines water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). Specifically, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) accelerates the conversion of CO₂ and H₂O into H₂CO₃, which then quickly dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) and hydrogen (H⁺) ions.

This reaction is crucial in the transport of CO₂ in the blood from tissues to the lungs. The enzyme contains a Zn²⁺ ion, which aids in the rapid conversion of millions of CO₂ molecules per second, making it highly efficient for this physiological process. Therefore, option (B) is correct.