Question:

In urban air pollution, the most poisonous gas is supposed to be carbon monoxide. It is hazardous because it

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Remember: \[ \boxed{ \mathrm{CO + Hb \rightarrow COHb} } \] Carbon monoxide has nearly \(200\)-\(250\) times greater affinity for haemoglobin than oxygen.
Updated On: Jul 23, 2026
  • Affects our sense of smell
  • Is carcinogenic in nature
  • Combines with hemoglobin
  • Causes blindness
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and highly poisonous gas produced due to incomplete combustion of fuels. It is hazardous because it combines readily with haemoglobin in blood to form carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb), thereby reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. \[ \boxed{ \mathrm{CO + Hb \rightarrow COHb} } \] Carbon monoxide has approximately \(200\) to \(250\) times greater affinity for haemoglobin than oxygen.

Step 1:
Understand the harmful effect of CO. When inhaled, \[ \mathrm{CO} \] replaces oxygen from haemoglobin, preventing oxygen transport to body tissues. This may cause headache, dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death.

Step 2:
Identify the correct reason. Hence, \[ \boxed{\text{Carbon monoxide is hazardous because it combines with haemoglobin}.} \] Therefore, the correct option is \[ \boxed{(C)\;\text{Combines with hemoglobin}.} \]
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