Define oxygen dissociation curve. Can you suggest any reason for its sigmoidal pattern?
The curve in which the percentage saturation of hemoglobin with O2 is plotted against the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) is called the oxygen dissociation curve. At a PO2 of 100 mm Hg, 100 percent saturation of Hb takes place 90% saturation of Hb takes place even at a P02 of 60mm Hg. An I fall of PCX, from 100 to 60mm Hg will cause only 10% decrease in saturation of Hb. Hence the curve takes the shape of a sigmoid.
