Question

State the main sources and effects of carbon monoxide.

Answer 1

• Sources: Carbon monoxide $\left(\mathrm{CO}\right)$ is a toxic air pollutant. Incomplete combustion of fuels like petrol, diesel, in homes, factories and automobiles, the burning of wood are some main sources of carbon monoxide gas.
• Carbon monoxide is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds.

$\mathrm{C}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)+\frac{1}{2}{\mathrm{O}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)\to \mathrm{CO}\left(\mathrm{g}\right)$

• Effects of Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide is harmful because it binds to haemoglobin in the blood, reducing the ability of blood to carry oxygen. $\mathrm{CO}$ exposure causes fatigue, headaches, confusion, and dizziness due to inadequate oxygen supply to the brain.