Question

Short / long answer type questions.
Even at extremely low concentrations, carbon monoxide in the inspired air can be fatal to life. Give reasons.

Answer 1

• Carbon monoxide binds very strongly to the iron in hemoglobin. Once carbon monoxide attaches, it is very difficult to release. So, carbon monoxide sticks to the hemoglobin and takes up all of the oxygen binding sites. Eventually, the blood loses all of its ability to transport oxygen, and a person suffocates.
  
• Because carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin so strongly, one can be poisoned by carbon monoxide even at very low concentrations if exposed for a long period of time.