Question

The toxic effect of carbon monoxide is due to its greater affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen by (approx.):

• A. 200 times
• B. 2 times
• C. 1000 times
• D. 20 times

Answer 1

The correct option is A 200 times

Carbon monoxide is a prominent air polluting gas. It is released into the environment by combustion process of fossil fuel particularly by vehicles in road traffic. The toxicity in humans and animals is caused by the extraordinary affinity of carbon monoxide for haemoglobin, which is responsible for the oxygen transport (approx. 200 times greater affinity of carbon monoxide compared to oxygen).