Question

Carbon monoxide kills because it destroys

• A. Haemoglobin
• B. Phytochrome
• C. Cytochrome
• D. Both A and B

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Haemoglobin

Carbon monoxide destroys the oxygen-binding and oxygen-carrying capacity of the respiratory pigment haemoglobin because it binds with it irreversibly to form the compound called the carboxyhemoglobin. This compound binds to the available oxygen as well but does not release it to the tissues. Because of this, the body tissues suffocate in a deficiency of the oxygen. This process is called carbon monoxide poisoning, that results in death. Phytochrome and cytochrome are pigments present in the plants.

So, the correct answer is 'Haemoglobin'