Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.
In the presence of carbon monoxide along with the normal amount of oxygen in the air man feels suffocation because:

• A. haemoglobin combines more frequently with carbon monoxide than with oxygen
• B. carbon monoxide reacts with oxygen
• C. carbon monoxide affects intercostal muscles and diaphragm
• D. lung nerves are affected by carbon monoxide

Answer 1

The correct option is A haemoglobin combines more frequently with carbon monoxide than with oxygen

Haemoglobin has more affinity for carbon monoxide than for oxygen due to the stronger binding between carbon monoxide and haemoglobin. So, when in presence of carbon monoxide, carbon monoxide displaces the oxygen molecules bound to haemoglobin. Due to this in the presence of carbon monoxide along with the normal amount of oxygen in the air, a man feels suffocated. So, the correct option is 'haemoglobin combines more frequently with carbon monoxide than with oxygen'.