Final answer:
A leak in an exhaust system due to a faulty muffler can allow poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) to enter the passenger compartment of the car. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is released when something is burned, such as when hydrocarbon fuels are combusted in a car engine. It is a toxic gas that can be harmful when inhaled in large amounts, and can cause adverse health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body's organs and tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A leak in an exhaust system due to a faulty muffler can allow poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) to enter the passenger compartment of the car. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is released when something is burned, such as when hydrocarbon fuels are combusted in a car engine. It is a toxic gas that can be harmful when inhaled in large amounts, and can cause adverse health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body's organs and tissues. Catalytic converters in the car's exhaust system are designed to react with and convert carbon monoxide into less harmful products.