A3.2.3 Carbon
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas. It is a by-product of incomplete combustion of fuel such as natural gas, coal or wood. Another common source is vehicle exhausts. Smaller contributions come from processes involving the combustion of organic matter, for example in power stations and waste incineration.
Carbon Monoxide is poisonous. According to http://www.airquality.co.uk, it “prevents the normal transport of oxygen by the blood. This can lead to a significant reduction in the supply of oxygen to the heart, particularly in people suffering from heart disease.”
© Crown copyright 2006
Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that is emitted from combustion, whether natural or man-made. It is also produced through respiration. At high concentrations, it is an asphyxiant.