Carbon Monoxide Formula with Solved Examples

Carbon monoxide Formula 

Carbon monoxide is a flammable, tasteless, odorless, and colorless gas, which is quite less heavy than air. It comprises one oxygen atom and one carbon atom, which are combined by a triple bond. Carbon monoxide belongs to the oxocarbon family, and it is one of the simplest molecules in its family. Carbon monoxide forms a useful ligand called carbonyl, which is used as a major ingredient in several chemical industries.

About the Topic:

Carbon monoxide comprises each atom of carbon and oxygen; its chemical formula is given as CO. 

The most common source of Carbon monoxide is thermal combustion, although several other biological sources contribute to the generation and emission of carbon monoxide.

One of the major biological sources responsible for carbon monoxide production in humans. Carbon monoxide has extensive use, including producing useful compounds such as fragrances, drugs, and even fuels. 

Properties of Carbon Monoxide:

Carbon Monoxide comprises a single atom of each carbon and oxygen, bound by a triple bond, including one sigma bond and two pi bonds. The bond length between the atoms of oxygen and carbon is about 112.8 pm. 

Importance of Carbon Monoxide:

• One of the most important uses of Carbon monoxide is manufacturing synthetic chemicals.
• It also plays an important role in metallurgical applications. 
• Carbon monoxide is a major component of the production of methanol
• To acidify certain food products like jam and cola, carbon monoxide is used.
• With the help of carbon monoxide, the rusted layer of metal can be removed easily 
• It also plays an important role in infrared lasers
• It is used as a reagent during the production of aldehydes.
• During the water gas shift process, carbon monoxide is used to produce hydrogen.

Solved Examples

• How is Carbon Monoxide produced?

 The cause of the production of carbon monoxide is the inadequate combustion of fuels. 

It means the reaction of steam with carbon or its source releases carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The production of carbon monoxide through inadequate combustion of fuels can be described by the given equation:

CO2 + C → 2CO

• What will be the product of carbon monoxide and copper oxide?

The reaction of carbon monoxide and copper oxide will result in the formation of copper and carbon dioxide. 

CuO + CO → Cu + CO2