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Binding of one molecule of oxygen to haemoglobin makes it easier for a second oxygen molecule to bind - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 3
Question 4
Binding of one molecule of oxygen to haemoglobin makes it easier for a second oxygen molecule to bind. Explain why.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Binding of one molecule of oxygen to haemoglobin makes it easier for a second oxygen molecule to bind - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 3
Step 1
Explain why binding of the first oxygen molecule facilitates the binding of the second
Answer
When the first oxygen molecule binds to haemoglobin, it causes a conformational change in the structure of the protein. This change makes it easier for a second oxygen molecule to bind to a different site. Essentially, the initial binding alters the affinity of haemoglobin for additional oxygen molecules, allowing for easier attachment.