Describe the major air pollutants. How does carbon monoxide pollute our environment?

Major air pollutants are :

1. Nitrogen oxides (N₂O, NO and NO₂)
2. Hydrocarbons (mainly methane, CH₄)
3. Sulphur oxides (SO₂ and SO₃)
4. Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S)
5. Carbon monoxide (CO)
6. Particulates (small solid particles and liquid droplets)

Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas. If inhaled, it binds with haemoglobin 200 times more strongly than oxygen reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen by converting haemoglobin into carboxyhaemoglobin. So, even in small quantities, it is fatal and can lead to death.
In atmosphere, Carbon monoxide combines with oxygen to increase carbon dioxide concentration leading to global warming.