What is the chemical formula for Carbon Monoxide?

The chemical formula for Carbon Monoxide is represented as CO. This formula indicates that each molecule of Carbon Monoxide consists of one carbon atom (C) and one oxygen atom (O), which is a fundamental aspect of its composition. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be harmful when inhaled, as it can bond with hemoglobin in the blood more effectively than oxygen, leading to dangerous health effects.

Understanding that the formula specifically denotes one of each element is crucial for identifying compounds accurately. Other options listed represent different compounds: CO2 is Carbon Dioxide, which contains two oxygen atoms and is produced when carbon burns completely; O2 represents molecular oxygen, essential for respiration but distinct from carbon compounds; and C2O suggests a structure that does not exist as a common compound. Knowing these distinctions is important for both academic study and practical applications in gas technology.