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Question #124759
The Question
A healthy individual relocates to a high-altitude region (>8000 feet) and resides there for several weeks. Which of the following statements regarding their physiological adaptations to chronic hypoxia is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
Erythrocytes upregulate the synthesis of 2,3-BPG, which binds to hemoglobin and shifts the oxygen dissociation curve to the right.
- B.
The binding affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen decreases, acting as a compensatory mechanism to facilitate enhanced oxygen unloading at systemic tissues.
- C.
The rightward shift of the dissociation curve significantly decreases the total oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood in the pulmonary circulation.
- D.
The kidneys secrete the hormone erythropoietin in response to chronic hypoxia, stimulating the bone marrow to increase red blood cell production.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
HbO2|2,3-BPG|Erythrocyte_Metabolism
Why This Question Is Tricky
Examiner Levers
Boundary Condition
Tests behavior at limits like 0, 1, infinity, or empty sets.
Difficulty Boost : +4Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Distinguishing between 'Oxygen Affinity' (determined by P50, affected by BPG/pH/Temp) and 'Oxygen Carrying Capacity' (determined by Hb concentration).
The trap exploits the common misconception that a right-shifted curve (decreased affinity) inherently means the blood carries less total oxygen, failing to realize that capacity increases via erythropoiesis and the right shift is a targeted adaptation for peripheral unloading.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Breathing and Exchange of Gases - Class 11 |
| Concept | Oxygen-Hemoglobin Dissociation Curve |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |