What effects does carbon monoxide have on the respiratory system?

Carbon monoxide has a significant adverse effect on the respiratory system primarily by binding to hemoglobin more effectively than oxygen. When carbon monoxide is inhaled, it competes with oxygen for binding sites on hemoglobin in the red blood cells. This binding forms carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the amount of hemoglobin available to carry oxygen. As a result, even though the lungs may be functioning properly and oxygen levels in the alveoli may be normal, the ability of the blood to transport oxygen to tissues is severely compromised. This leads to a condition known as hypoxia, where tissues do not receive adequate oxygen, which can have serious health implications. The other choices suggest benefits or neutrality that do not accurately represent the dangerous impact of carbon monoxide on the respiratory and overall physiological processes.