COmolekyylit

COmolekyylit, often referred to as carbon monoxide molecules, are diatomic molecules consisting of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom. The carbon and oxygen atoms are joined by a triple bond, which is a strong covalent bond formed by the sharing of three pairs of electrons. This triple bond is composed of one sigma bond and two pi bonds. The molecule is polar due to the difference in electronegativity between carbon and oxygen, with the oxygen atom being more electronegative. However, the polarity is relatively weak.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. It is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. CO is a significant air pollutant, primarily produced from the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing materials, such as in internal combustion engines, furnaces, and wood-burning stoves. In biological systems, CO is produced endogenously in small amounts and plays a role as a signaling molecule. However, at higher concentrations, it is a potent toxin. Its toxicity arises from its strong affinity for hemoglobin in the blood, which is much higher than that of oxygen. This binding prevents oxygen from being transported to the body's tissues, leading to hypoxia.