F8iv: Explain the carbon dioxide dissociation curve

CO2 Dissociation Curve

Dissociation Curve
  • CO2 dissociation curve shows relationship between blood PCO2 and CO2 content per dL
  • Linear ODC → lacks +ve COOPERATIVITY
  • Steeper than ODC → due to Haldane Effect, when there is ↑CO2 the blood can carry more
  • Haldane Effect is responsible for difference between Arterial Pt & Venous Pt
  • Arterial Point = PCO2 40mmHg, 48mL CO2/dL
  • Venous Point = PCO2 46mmHg, 52mL CO2/dL