Which iron-containing pigment is found in slow-twitch muscle fibres where oxygen is stored?

Study the AQA A Level PE Test for The Cardiovascular System. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations. Get ready for exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which iron-containing pigment is found in slow-twitch muscle fibres where oxygen is stored?

Explanation:
Oxygen is stored in muscle cells by myoglobin, an iron-containing heme protein. Myoglobin binds oxygen released from the blood and delivers it to the mitochondria during aerobic respiration, which is especially important in slow-twitch (oxidative) fibres. These fibres have many mitochondria and high myoglobin content, giving them a red color and enabling sustained, aerobic activity. Haemoglobin stays in red blood cells to transport oxygen in the blood, not stored in muscle fibres; mitochondria are the energy-producing organelles, not pigments; pH is a measure of acidity, not a pigment.

Oxygen is stored in muscle cells by myoglobin, an iron-containing heme protein. Myoglobin binds oxygen released from the blood and delivers it to the mitochondria during aerobic respiration, which is especially important in slow-twitch (oxidative) fibres. These fibres have many mitochondria and high myoglobin content, giving them a red color and enabling sustained, aerobic activity. Haemoglobin stays in red blood cells to transport oxygen in the blood, not stored in muscle fibres; mitochondria are the energy-producing organelles, not pigments; pH is a measure of acidity, not a pigment.

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