Problem 83 - Chemistry Matter and Change

Question

Blood You have 15 g of hemoglobin in every 100 \(\mathrm{mL}\) of your blood. 10.0 \(\mathrm{mL}\) of your blood can carry 2.01 \(\mathrm{mL}\) of oxygen. How many milliliters of oxygen does each gram of hemoglobin carry?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Each gram of hemoglobin carries 1.34 mL of oxygen.

Step 1: Understand the Given Information

We are given that there are 15 g of hemoglobin in every 100 mL of blood, and 10.0 mL of blood can carry 2.01 mL of oxygen. We need to find out how many milliliters of oxygen each gram of hemoglobin can carry.

Step 2: Calculate Oxygen-Carrying Capacity per mL of Blood

First, determine the oxygen carrying capacity per mL of blood. We can do this by finding out how much oxygen is carried by 1 mL of blood. Given that 10.0 mL of blood carries 2.01 mL of oxygen, it implies that 1 mL of blood carries \(\frac{2.01}{10} = 0.201\) mL of oxygen.

Step 3: Determine Hemoglobin Content per mL of Blood

Since there are 15 grams of hemoglobin in 100 mL of blood, the amount of hemoglobin in 1 mL of blood is \(\frac{15}{100} = 0.15\) grams.

Step 4: Calculate Oxygen-Carrying Capacity per Gram of Hemoglobin

We know that 1 mL of blood carries 0.201 mL of oxygen and contains 0.15 grams of hemoglobin. Thus, the oxygen carrying capacity per gram of hemoglobin is \(\frac{0.201}{0.15} = 1.34\) mL of oxygen per gram of hemoglobin.

Key Concepts

Oxygen Transport

Oxygen transport is a fundamental process in our bodies. It involves the movement of oxygen from the lungs to various tissues where it's needed for cellular respiration. The primary carrier of oxygen in our blood is hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that binds with oxygen molecules. When we inhale, oxygen enters our lungs and binds to the iron atoms in hemoglobin, forming a compound known as oxyhemoglobin. This is how oxygen is transported through blood in large quantities to ensure all body cells receive adequate oxygen. Once hemoglobin reaches tissues that need oxygen, it releases the oxygen molecules. These tissues use oxygen to help convert food into energy in a process called cellular respiration. This cycle of binding and releasing oxygen efficiently supports the energy needs of different body parts.

Oxygen Carrying Capacity

The oxygen-carrying capacity refers to how much oxygen blood can transport. This capacity largely depends on hemoglobin content, because hemoglobin is the main protein responsible for oxygen transport in our blood. Generally, each gram of hemoglobin can carry a specific amount of oxygen, roughly 1.34 mL, as detailed in the problem. The amount is crucial because it dictates how much oxygen our blood can carry per given volume, which in turn influences how efficiently our body can function. For instance, if hemoglobin levels are too low, a condition known as anemia, the body's oxygen delivery capability is reduced, leading to fatigue and other health issues. Thus, maintaining a healthy level of hemoglobin is important for the optimal oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, which is essential for our well-being.

Blood Composition

Blood is a fascinating and complex bodily fluid with several vital components. Each component plays a special role in maintaining health and supporting life.

• Red blood cells (RBCs): These cells contain hemoglobin and are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide from the body to the lungs for exhalation.
• White blood cells (WBCs): These are part of the immune system and are involved in protecting the body against infections and foreign invaders.
• Platelets: These are crucial for blood clotting, which prevents excessive bleeding when injuries occur.
• Plasma: The liquid component of blood that carries cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body.

The balance and health of these components are essential for the effective functioning of the circulatory system. Any imbalances, such as a low number of RBCs or hemoglobin, can impair the system's ability to transport oxygen efficiently and lead to medical conditions requiring treatment.