What is the primary function of hemoglobin?

The primary function of hemoglobin is to carry oxygen in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen molecules in the lungs and transports them to tissues throughout the body. This oxygen transport is critical for cellular respiration, as oxygen is necessary for the production of energy in cells.

Furthermore, hemoglobin also assists in transporting a small percentage of carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism, from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation. Its role is vital in maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the body, ensuring that organs and tissues receive the oxygen they need for optimal function. The structure of hemoglobin allows it to effectively pick up oxygen in areas of high concentration (like the lungs) and release it in areas of low concentration (such as the tissues).