What percent (%) of `CO_(2)` is transported as bicarbonate `(HCO_(3))` with the help of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase?

Options

A. 70%
B. 20-25%
C. 0.97%
D. 0.07%

Answer

To solve the question regarding the percentage of carbon dioxide (CO₂) that is transported as bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) with the help of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Transport Mechanism**:
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is transported in the blood in three main forms: dissolved in plasma, bound to hemoglobin, and as bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻).
- The enzyme carbonic anhydrase plays a critical role in the conversion of CO₂ to bicarbonate.

2. **Identifying the Percentages**:
- It is established that approximately 70% of CO₂ is transported in the form of bicarbonate ions.
- The remaining CO₂ is either dissolved in plasma or bound to hemoglobin.

3. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the information provided, the percentage of CO₂ that is transported as bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) with the help of carbonic anhydrase is **70%**.

### Final Answer:
The percentage of CO₂ transported as bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) is **70%**.

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