_______ is produced from incomplete burning of fuels such as petrol and diesel.

The correct answer is Carbon monoxide.

Key Points

• Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas produced during the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels such as petrol, diesel, wood, and coal.
• Incomplete combustion occurs when there is insufficient oxygen to convert all carbon in the fuel to carbon dioxide (CO₂).
• Major sources of carbon monoxide include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and residential heating appliances like gas stoves and furnaces.
• Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it is undetectable without specialized equipment and can cause serious health issues or death when inhaled in high concentrations.
• Efforts to reduce CO emissions include the use of catalytic converters in vehicles, proper maintenance of combustion appliances, and promoting cleaner energy sources.

Additional Information

• Carbon monoxide poisoning:
  • CO binds to hemoglobin in the blood with an affinity 200-250 times greater than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces oxygen delivery to tissues.
  • Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and in severe cases, unconsciousness or death.
  • Proper ventilation and regular maintenance of combustion equipment can prevent CO buildup indoors.
• Catalytic converters:
  • These devices are installed in vehicle exhaust systems to convert harmful gases like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide and water vapor.
  • They play a critical role in reducing air pollution from vehicles.
• Air quality monitoring:
  • Air quality indices (AQI) measure pollutant levels, including carbon monoxide, to inform the public about air safety.
  • High CO levels are particularly dangerous in urban areas with heavy vehicular traffic.
• Health and safety regulations:
  • Government regulations limit CO emissions from vehicles and industrial sources to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
  • Building codes often require CO detectors in residential and commercial spaces to warn occupants of dangerous levels.