Question

So i have to describe one of the roles of CO, NO or CN- and comment on the apparent contradiction between the toxicity and the essential role. Any general information would be appreciated

Answer 1

CO is highly dangerous because it is 200 times more reactive than CO2
so cause death of human on breaathing it( caled CO poisioning)

Answer 2

but why is it poisonous?

Answer 3

i know it has a higher affinity than dioxygen for hemoglobin

Answer 4

i think you know about diffusion of gas at respiratory surface(i.e lungs). but in case of CO when it binds with Hb it permanently attach with it so site of attachment of Hb reduce

Answer 5

Due to reducing of sites for attachment of O2 it leads to death

Answer 6

it's not a permanent bond.. reduction of available sites for transport? okay, thanks, i need something more substantial though.

Answer 7

yeah this bond is not permanent but very strong in comparison with Hb-Co2 Bond

Answer 8

it is stronger, there is a sigma anti bonding Ligand to metal donation

Answer 9

and CN (Cyanide) one of the famous Poision

Answer 10

do you know what it does in the body, or what would be it's essential role?