Hamburger's phenomenon is also known as

Options

A. chloride shift mechanism
B. sodium - potassium pump
C. carbonic acid shift mechanism
D. hydrogen shift mechanism

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hamburger's Phenomenon**: Hamburger's phenomenon is a physiological process that occurs in red blood cells (RBCs) during the transport of carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs. It is named after the scientist Hardog Jacob Hamburger.

2. **Mechanism of the Phenomenon**: In this phenomenon, carbon dioxide (CO2) from the tissues enters the RBCs and reacts with water (H2O) to form carbonic acid (H2CO3). This carbonic acid then dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+).

3. **Charge Balancing**: As bicarbonate ions leave the RBC to enter the plasma, there is an increase in positive charge inside the RBC due to the release of hydrogen ions. To maintain electrical neutrality, chloride ions (Cl-) from the plasma move into the RBC. This exchange of ions is crucial for maintaining the balance of charges.

4. **Terminology**: The process of chloride ions moving into the RBC in exchange for bicarbonate ions moving out is referred to as the "chloride shift." This is the key aspect of Hamburger's phenomenon.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, Hamburger's phenomenon is also known as the "chloride shift mechanism."

**Final Answer**: Hamburger's phenomenon is also known as the **chloride shift mechanism**.

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