Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From?

Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From?

Carbon monoxide comes from many different sources. The main way in which carbon monoxide is released into the atmosphere is through the burning of something carbon-based. There are two major ways in which this happens. First, there are certain natural processes that release carbon monoxide into the atmosphere. There are also, however, sources of carbon monoxide emissions that are created by human beings.

What are the Main Natural Sources of Carbon Monoxide?

Many of the sources of carbon monoxide are, as mentioned above, naturally occurring. Volcanic eruptions, for example, are one of the major sources of carbon monoxide entering the atmosphere. So are wildfires and leaching of gases through soil. Actually, anytime something that is carbon-based burns--and it burns without the interference or assistance of a human being--it can be said to be a natural source of carbon monoxide.

What are the Major Man-Made Sources of Carbon Monoxide?

Unfortunately, human beings contribute a great deal of toxic carbon monoxide into the atmosphere through their everyday activities. When we burn carbon-containing materials such as gasoline, oil, paper, wood or any of the other carbon-based fuels we use, the burning process releases large quantities of carbon monoxide into the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuels by society is especially problematic and is the main way in which carbon monoxide is released into the atmosphere by non-natural means.

Resources

• More Information About Carbon Monoxide