Why is carbon monoxide particularly hazardous for divers?

Carbon monoxide is particularly hazardous for divers because it binds with hemoglobin in red blood cells much more effectively than oxygen does. When carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin and reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen to vital organs and tissues. This can lead to hypoxia, where the body does not receive enough oxygen, even if the diver is breathing oxygen-rich air. Consequently, the presence of carbon monoxide can create a critical situation for divers, as it severely compromises their physiological capability to function underwater and increases the risk of serious complications, such as unconsciousness or even death. Understanding this mechanism is essential for divers in order to recognize the importance of monitoring for carbon monoxide exposure, especially in environments where combustion engines or other sources of the gas are present, thus maintaining safety during dives.