How many molecules of hemoglobin are typically found in each red blood cell?

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Prepare for the UCF Biological Principles Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed on your exam!

Each red blood cell typically contains about 250 million molecules of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body as well as helping to carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs for expulsion. The high concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells is necessary to efficiently meet the oxygen demands of the body's tissues. This large number of hemoglobin molecules ensures that a significant amount of oxygen can be bound and transported throughout the circulatory system. Other options either underestimate or overestimate the typical quantity, which is why 250 million is widely accepted as the standard count in red blood cells.