Overview

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, toxic gas. It is one of the most common poisons in the environment and is responsible for thousands of deaths and hospital emergency room visits each year in the United States. Carbon monoxide is produced from fuel-burning appliances, such as space heaters, furnaces, stoves, and vehicles. It is also a component of cigarette smoke. Carbon monoxide is flammable and capable of forming an explosive mixture with air.

Key Facts

Other Names:

None

Formula:

CO

Elements:

Carbon, oxygen

Compound Type:

Nonmetallic oxide

State:

Gas

Molecular Weight:

28.01 g/mol

Melting Point:

−205.02°C (−337.04°F)

Boiling Point:

−191.5°C (−312.7°F)

Solubility:

Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol and chloroform

Under ideal circumstances, a carbon-containing fuel such as charcoal, natural gas, or wood burns in air to form carbon dioxide and water. Lacking an adequate supply of oxygen, at low temperatures, or under...