Final answer:
The statement "The silent killer reputation of carbon monoxide arises because it primarily affects people by causing a lack of oxygen in the body." Is true.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon monoxide is termed as a silent killer because it binds to hemoglobin more effectively than oxygen, leading to oxygen deprivation in the body and causing potentially fatal symptoms. The silent killer reputation of carbon monoxide (CO) arises because it primarily affects people by causing a lack of oxygen in the body. CO is a colorless, odorless gas which interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body by binding with hemoglobin in red blood cells.
This binding has a greater affinity than oxygen does, which means carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from being transported effectively to the organs and tissues. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often flu-like and can include headache, dizziness, vomiting, and confusion; severe exposure can lead to unconsciousness or even death. Immediate treatment involves removing the person from exposure and administering high concentrations of oxygen.