What makes carbon monoxide particularly dangerous?

Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it has a strong affinity for hemoglobin—the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream, it binds with hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin, which significantly reduces the amount of hemoglobin available for oxygen transport. As a result, tissues and organs are deprived of oxygen, leading to symptoms that can range from headaches and dizziness to loss of consciousness and even death in severe cases.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the primary dangers of carbon monoxide. It does not cause immediate skin burns, nor does it release toxic ammonia or lower blood sugar levels. Understanding this mechanism of carbon monoxide helps emphasize its high toxicity and why it poses a serious risk, especially in poorly ventilated spaces where it can accumulate.