What is hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a vital protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. This protein's structure allows it to bind effectively to oxygen molecules, facilitating the essential process of delivering oxygen for cellular respiration. The ability of hemoglobin to pick up oxygen in the lungs and release it in areas where it is needed is crucial for maintaining the body's metabolic functions and overall health. Unlike other options listed, hemoglobin's primary role is directly linked to oxygen transport rather than other physiological processes such as muscle contraction, digestion, or blood pressure regulation.