explain the role of carbonic anhydrase and bicarbonate in aiding efficient Co2 transport
Dear Student,
Plasma cells and red blood cells transport carbon dioxide to tissues.
About 70% of carbon dioxide is transported in blood plasma as bicarbonate ions. As carbon dioxide enters into the blood, much of it is converted to carbonic acid. This reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which increases the rate of conversion. The carbonic acid thus formed in red blood cells dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3- ) and hydrogen ions (H+ ).
Regards
Plasma cells and red blood cells transport carbon dioxide to tissues.
About 70% of carbon dioxide is transported in blood plasma as bicarbonate ions. As carbon dioxide enters into the blood, much of it is converted to carbonic acid. This reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which increases the rate of conversion. The carbonic acid thus formed in red blood cells dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3- ) and hydrogen ions (H+ ).
Regards