List the mechanisms for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. (include \%'s)

Oxygen is primarily transported in two ways in the blood: around 98.5% binds to hemoglobin within red blood cells, forming oxyhemoglobin, while the remaining 1.5% is dissolved in plasma. When it comes to carbon dioxide, about 70% is converted to bicarbonate ions, allowing for efficient transport, while around 20-23% binds to hemoglobin forming carbamino compounds, and roughly 7-10% is dissolved directly in the plasma. This cooperative effort ensures our bodies get the oxygen they need while efficiently removing carbon dioxide! Did you know that hemoglobin isn't just a one-trick pony? It plays a significant role in regulating blood pH as well! When carbon dioxide levels rise, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which can influence how hemoglobin releases oxygen more readily. This "Bohr effect" is essential for keeping our tissues well-oxygenated, especially during exercise when carbon dioxide production increases!