CO

CO

CO is the chemical formula for carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly less dense than air. It is toxic to humans and animals when encountered in higher concentrations. Carbon monoxide is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds; it forms when there is not enough oxygen to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), such as when operating a stove or an internal combustion engine in an enclosed space.

Properties

Carbon monoxide has a molecular weight of 28.01 g/mol and a boiling point of -191.5°C. It is a diatomic molecule consisting of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom, connected by a triple bond that includes two covalent bonds and one dative covalent bond.

Sources

Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels such as natural gas, coal, wood, and gasoline. Common sources include:

• Automobile exhaust
• Gas stoves
• Furnaces
• Charcoal grills
• Cigarette smoke

Health Effects

Exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High levels of exposure can result in loss of consciousness and death. Carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin in the blood to form carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen.

Detection and Prevention

Carbon monoxide detectors are devices that can detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas to prevent poisoning. These detectors are often installed in homes and workplaces to provide early warning of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Preventive measures include ensuring proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances, regular maintenance of heating systems, and avoiding the use of gasoline-powered engines indoors.

Industrial Uses

In industry, carbon monoxide is used in various chemical processes, including:

• The production of methanol
• The Fischer-Tropsch process for producing hydrocarbons
• The reduction of metal oxides to metals in metallurgy

Environmental Impact

Carbon monoxide contributes to air pollution and can have harmful effects on the environment. It can react with other pollutants to form ground-level ozone, which is a component of smog.

See Also

• Carbon dioxide
• Air pollution
• Combustion
• Hemoglobin
• Poisoning