The pigment from blood is hemoglobin.
Understanding Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. It's responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. This protein's crucial role is what gives blood its characteristic red color.
Hemoglobin's Composition
Hemoglobin is comprised of two main parts:
- Heme: This iron-containing molecule is the actual pigment responsible for the red color. Iron's presence is vital for hemoglobin's function. Iron deficiency can lead to paler blood due to reduced heme pigment.
- Globin: This protein component surrounds and supports the heme group.
The Role of Iron
The iron atom within the heme group is essential for binding oxygen. The iron's interaction with oxygen causes a change in the hemoglobin molecule, altering the light absorption properties and resulting in the vibrant red color of oxygenated blood. A lack of iron reduces the amount of heme, leading to a lighter, less red color.
In summary: Hemoglobin, containing the iron-rich heme group, is the primary pigment in blood, providing its characteristic red color. The iron content directly influences the intensity of this color.
