(a) Carbon monoxide is formed by incomplete combustion of fuels in homes, factories and automobiles.
Harmful effects of carbon monoxide :
Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas. If inhaled, it binds with haemoglobin 200 times more strongly than oxygen reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen by converting haemoglobin into carboxyhaemoglobin. So, even in small quantities, it is fatal and can lead to death.
(b) When inhaled, carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream through the lungs. It binds to haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to body tissues. Carbon monoxide binds with haemoglobin 200 times more strongly than oxygen, so even small amounts in the air can greatly affect the body. It reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen by converting haemoglobin into carboxyhaemoglobin. The heart and brain, being highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation, are most severely impacted by carbon monoxide exposure. In high concentrations, carbon monoxide can lead to death by paralyzing normal brain function.