Analyze the sigmoidal shape of the Hemoglobin (Hb) Oxygen dissociation curve.
Understand cooperative binding of $O_2$ to heme groups.
Explain the Bohr Shift: How high $P_{CO2}$, high Temp, and low pH right-shift the curve in active tissues.
Why It Matters
Hemoglobin is perfectly evolved. In the lungs ($P_{O_2} \approx 100$ mmHg), it binds oxygen strongly. In active muscles (producing $CO_2$ and acid), the curve shifts right—meaning Hb drastically decreases its affinity and literally 'dumps' the oxygen exactly where it's needed most.