BIO NMDCAT Biological Importance of Water
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The hydration of carbon dioxide to form carbonic acid in red blood cells demonstrates water’s role as a

A. Cofactor for the enzyme catalase
B. Structural component of the hemoglobin protein
C. Solvent for non-polar respiratory gases
D. Direct reactant in a biochemical reaction

📝 Explanation

The reaction CO₂ + H₂O ⇌ H₂CO₃ is catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase. Here, water is not just a solvent but a substrate that chemically participates in the reaction by combining directly with carbon dioxide.

📖 Additional Information

  • Cofactor for the enzyme catalase
  • Structural component of the hemoglobin protein
  • Solvent for non-polar respiratory gases
  • Direct reactant in a biochemical reaction

The reaction CO₂ + H₂O ⇌ H₂CO₃ is catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase. Here, water is not just a solvent but a substrate that chemically participates in the reaction by combining directly with carbon dioxide.

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