What is the Hamburger phenomenon (Chloride Shift) during carbon dioxide transport in blood? (Hard)
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Diffusion of chloride ions into erythrocytes to balance the efflux of bicarbonate ions
- Step 1: In tissue capillaries, HCO3- generated in red cells moves out into plasma down its concentration gradient. Step 2. To maintain electrical neutrality across the erythrocyte membrane, chloride ions (Cl-) move from plasma into red cells, known as the chloride shift. Answer: Diffusion of chloride ions into erythrocytes to balance the efflux of bicarbonate ions. Why not the others: Sodium does not shift; potassium flux is not the primary charge balance mechanism here; chloride does not directly trigger oxygen dissociation.
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