OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

What is the primary role of haemoglobin?

1. Energy transport

2. Oxygen binding and delivery

3. Cell division

4. Nutrient absorption

The correct answer is: Oxygen binding and delivery

The primary role of hemoglobin is oxygen binding and delivery. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that facilitates the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues throughout the body. When blood passes through the lungs, hemoglobin binds to oxygen molecules, forming oxyhemoglobin, which is then released into body tissues where it is needed for cellular respiration and energy production. This crucial function supports metabolic activities and overall physiological processes in living organisms. In this context, the other choices do not accurately represent the primary role of hemoglobin. For instance, energy transport refers to the movement of energy in forms like ATP, while cell division and nutrient absorption are processes primarily handled by other cellular mechanisms and structures, rather than by hemoglobin itself. Thus, while hemoglobin may indirectly support energy metabolism by delivering oxygen, its specific function is centered around binding and delivering oxygen.