Question

Why is CO more toxic than CO₂?

Answer 1

CO is more toxic than CO₂:

1. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless gas that is formed by the incomplete combustion of the fuel.
2. Carbon dioxide is exhaled by humans as a by-product of cellular metabolism.
3. Carbon monoxide is a compound that replaces the oxygen which is present in the blood cell. Hence, the increase in a high amount of carbon monoxide in the body leads to serious tissue damage or even death.
4. Thus, CO is more toxic than CO₂.