Excessive release of the pollutant carbon monoxide (CO) into the air m...
Explanation: Normally, oxygen would bind to hemoglobin in the lungs and be released in areas with low oxygen partial pressure (e.g. active muscles). When carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, it cannot be released as easily as oxygen. The slow release rate of carbon monoxide causes an accumulation of CO-bound hemoglobin molecules as exposure to carbon monoxide continues. Because of this, fewer hemoglobin particles are available to bind and deliver oxygen, thus causing the gradual suffocation associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.
Educational Objective: To know about Various impact of Carbon Dioxide.
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Excessive release of the pollutant carbon monoxide (CO) into the air m...
Explanation:
Introduction:
Excessive release of the pollutant carbon monoxide (CO) into the air can lead to a condition known as carbon monoxide poisoning. This condition occurs when the oxygen supply in the human body decreases due to the presence of high levels of CO.
Causes of Decreased Oxygen Supply:
The correct answer to the question is option B, which states that the inhaled CO has a much higher affinity for hemoglobin compared to oxygen. This is the major cause of the decreased oxygen supply in the body during carbon monoxide poisoning.
Affinity for Hemoglobin:
Hemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Oxygen binds to hemoglobin in the lungs and is transported to the body tissues. However, carbon monoxide has a much higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen. This means that when both carbon monoxide and oxygen are present in the air, carbon monoxide will preferentially bind to hemoglobin instead of oxygen.
Formation of Carboxyhemoglobin:
When carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, it forms a compound called carboxyhemoglobin. This reduces the capacity of hemoglobin to carry oxygen. As a result, the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood decreases, leading to a condition known as hypoxia.
Effects on Oxygen Delivery:
The formation of carboxyhemoglobin reduces the amount of oxygen that can be transported to the body tissues. This can result in a wide range of symptoms, including headache, dizziness, confusion, shortness of breath, and even loss of consciousness. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the excessive release of carbon monoxide into the air can cause a condition in which the oxygen supply in the human body decreases. This occurs because carbon monoxide has a higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen, leading to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. It is important to minimize exposure to carbon monoxide to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and its potentially harmful effects on the body.
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