Each hemoglobin molecule contains how many iron atoms?

Each hemoglobin molecule contains four iron atoms, which play a crucial role in its function. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. The structure of hemoglobin includes four heme groups, each of which contains an iron atom at its center. This iron atom is essential for binding oxygen; it interacts with oxygen molecules too, allowing hemoglobin to effectively carry oxygen through the bloodstream. The presence of four iron atoms enables a single hemoglobin molecule to bind up to four oxygen molecules, making the transport of oxygen efficient.

Understanding the composition of hemoglobin and its iron content is fundamental in hematology and related fields, as abnormalities in this structure can lead to various blood disorders.