Search any question & find its solution
Question:
Answered & Verified by Expert
A molecule of oxygen diffuses from the alveolar air space into an erythrocyte to form oxyhaemoglobin. How many times does it need to diffuse through the cell membranes to reach the haemoglobin?
Options:
Solution:
1961 Upvotes
Verified Answer
The correct answer is:
For oxygen to enter the RBC, it has to pass through squamous epithelium of alveoli, squamous epithelium of capillaries and finally it will reach the RBC. It will enter the squamous epithelium of alveolus through one end and will leave it through the other. Thus, for passing through the squamous epithelium of alveolus, it has to pass through plasma lemma or cell membrane twice. Similarly, to pass through the squamous epithelium of capillary it has to pass through cell membrane twice. Then it passes through the cell membrane of RBC to reach haemoglobin. Thus, it crosses the cell membrane 5 times.


Looking for more such questions to practice?
Download the MARKS App - The ultimate prep app for IIT JEE & NEET with chapter-wise PYQs, revision notes, formula sheets, custom tests & much more.