Dissociation graphs show how affinity for oxygen varies.
1. When partial pressure is high, haemoglobin has a high affinity for oxygen...so it has a high saturation of oxygen.
2. When partial pressure is low haemoglobin has a low affinity for oxygen...so it has a low saturation of oxygen.
3. When saturation is at 100% it means that every haemoglobin molecule is carrying the maximum of 4 molecules of oxygen.
4. When the 1st haemoglobin combines with 1st oxygen molecule the shape of the haemoglobin alters so it is easier for the next molecules to join, but then as the haemoglobin becomes more saturated it gets harder for molecules to join, explaining the 'S' shape of a dissociation curve.
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