Excessive release of the pollutant carbon monoxide (CO) into the air may produce a condition in which oxygen supply in the human body decreases. What causes this condition?
- A.When inhaled into the human body, CO is converted into CO₂
- B.The inhaled CO has much higher affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen
- C.The inhaled CO destroys the chemical structure of haemoglobin
- D.The inhaled CO adversely affects the respiratory centre in the brain
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: B. The inhaled CO has much higher affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is highly toxic. It poses a significant health risk because it binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells with an affinity approximately 200-250 times greater than that of oxygen. This strong binding forms carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), which reduces the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to vital organs like the brain and heart. As COHb levels rise, oxygen deprivation occurs, leading to symptoms ranging from headaches and dizziness to unconsciousness and death.
Source: UPSC gs1 2010