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What is the chemical symbol for carbon monoxide?

  1. CO2

  2. CO

  3. H2O

  4. NH3

The correct answer is: CO

The chemical symbol for carbon monoxide is represented as CO. This compound consists of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom, which is reflected in its chemical formula. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass. It is important to distinguish carbon monoxide from other compounds. For example, the symbol CO2 refers to carbon dioxide, which contains two oxygen atoms, while H2O represents water, consisting of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. NH3 is the chemical formula for ammonia, which comprises one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. Understanding these symbols is vital in the context of gas heating and safety, especially since carbon monoxide is a potential byproduct of improper combustion in heating systems.