Question:

Hemoglobin in man is made up of

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Human hemoglobin (HbA) = 2 alpha + 2 beta chains + 4 heme groups; carries 4 oxygen molecules per hemoglobin.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • 4 Polypeptide chains and 4 heme molecules
  • 2 Polypeptide chains and 2 heme molecules
  • 4 Polypeptide chains and one heme molecule
  • 2 Polypeptide chains and 1 heme molecule
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Structure of hemoglobin.
- Hemoglobin is a globular protein found in red blood cells.
- It is responsible for transporting oxygen from lungs to tissues.

Step 2: Polypeptide chains.

- Hemoglobin consists of 4 polypeptide chains: 2 alpha and 2 beta chains.
- Each chain contains one heme group.

Step 3: Heme group.

- Heme is an iron-containing prosthetic group that binds oxygen.
- Each heme binds one O\(_2\) molecule.

Step 4: Oxygen carrying capacity.

- 4 heme groups allow hemoglobin to carry 4 oxygen molecules per molecule of hemoglobin.

Step 5: Conclusion.

Hence, human hemoglobin is made up of 4 polypeptide chains and 4 heme molecules.
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