Why is carbon monoxide an air pollutant?

When you place a cup over a candle, carbon monoxide (CO) will be released because incomplete combustion, or depriving a combustion (fire) of oxygen before it is complete, is the main cause of CO production.

It connects to hemoglobin, preventing it from carrying oxygen to our bodies; if you breathe too much CO, you will suffocate. Air pollution is defined as any airborne substance at a level that is dangerous to life, and this would definitely fall into that category. It is extremely dangerous to humans and other animals, which is why smoke detectors are necessary.

Additionally, it is classified as a secondary air pollutant due to its ability to combine with other air pollutants to form ozone (O3), which is great for blocking UV-B rays in the stratosphere but kills chlorophyll in plants, irritates our eyes and lungs, and can even lead to bronchitis.

Carbon monoxide is considered an air pollutant because it interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. This can cause various health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and, in high concentrations, can be fatal. Additionally, carbon monoxide contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog, further impacting air quality.