monossido

Monossido is a chemical term that describes a molecule containing a single oxygen atom bonded to another element. In common scientific and lay usage, the best known example is carbon monoxide, CO, referred to as monossido di carbonio in Italian. Other examples of monoxides exist, such as nitrogen monoxide (NO) and various metal monoxides, though their properties vary and many metal oxides are solids or less volatile.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature. It is produced by incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels and can accumulate in enclosed spaces such as homes, vehicles, and industrial facilities. CO is highly toxic because it binds to hemoglobin with a much higher affinity than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and reducing the blood’s capacity to transport oxygen. Exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and in severe cases loss of consciousness or death. Treatment involves removing the person from exposure and providing oxygen; severe cases may require advanced medical interventions. Prevention relies on proper ventilation, regular maintenance of fuel-burning appliances, and the use of carbon monoxide detectors.

Applications of carbon monoxide include its use as a reducing agent and as a building block in the production of chemicals and fuels, notably in the synthesis of hydrocarbons and methanol via syngas processes. It also plays a role in some metal refining and carbonylation reactions. Other monoxides are less common in everyday life and often unstable or only present under specific conditions, illustrating the wide range of behavior among one-oxygen species.