What happens when there is an incomplete combustion?

Incomplete combustion occurs when there is only a limited amount of oxygen. This means that CO and C (soot) is produced as well as just CO2 (carbon dioxide).

-C is a lung irritant ie. can trigger Asthma

-CO displaces haemoglobin from blood. ie. CO takes oxygen OUT OF the blood supply so that it can become CO2. Therefore, cells do not get enough oxygen.

-CO can cause breathing difficulties, headaches, fatigue, unconsciousness, and even death

-CO is a colourless, odourless toxic gas (so it cannot be sensed until it's too late)

-C (soot) can block sunlight getting to plants therefore they cannot photosynthesise and produce oxygen