cooperative binding
What cooperative binding means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of cooperative binding
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain cooperative binding in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Binding the first oxygen molecule changes the haemoglobin's shape, making further binding easier, which gives the curve its sigmoid shape.
The change in shape of haemoglobin caused by binding of the first oxygens makes the binding of further oxygens easier.
Topics that use cooperative binding
- Mass transport in animals (AQA A-Level)
- Transport in animals (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- double circulation
- pulmonary and systemic circuits
- affinity
- affinity for oxygen
- Association and dissociation of oxygen
- atrial systole
- Atrioventricular valves
- biconcave disc
Using cooperative binding in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge