Question:medium

Which of the following acts as hemoglobin (Hb) in the blood buffer system?

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Hemoglobin's role in buffering blood pH is crucial, especially in tissues where COâ‚‚ is produced during metabolism.
Updated On: Nov 26, 2025
  • NaHCO₃

  • H₂Hb

  • HbCO₂

  • HbCl
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The correct answer is H₂Hb, representing deoxygenated hemoglobin.

Deoxygenated hemoglobin (H₂Hb) functions as a blood buffer by binding to hydrogen ions (H+), thereby stabilizing blood pH. This buffering action is facilitated by hemoglobin's increased affinity for hydrogen ions upon oxygen release, allowing it to buffer in tissues where CO2 is generated by cellular respiration.

Conversely, in the lungs, hemoglobin binds oxygen to form HbO₂, releasing hydrogen ions and regulating blood pH. This coupled exchange of oxygen and hydrogen ions is critical for maintaining the blood's acid-base balance, which is vital for normal physiological functions.

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