Which of the following gases is considered a major component of smoke?

Carbon dioxide is a major component of smoke produced during combustion. When organic materials like wood, paper, and other carbon-based substances burn, they release various byproducts into the atmosphere, one of the most prevalent being carbon dioxide. This gas forms as a result of the chemical reaction where carbon in the fuel combines with oxygen from the air during combustion.

In addition to carbon dioxide, smoke is composed of a mixture of other substances, including water vapor, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and various volatile organic compounds. While other gases like hydrogen cyanide might be present in smaller amounts, carbon dioxide consistently represents a significant portion of smoke due to its ubiquitous generation in typical fire scenarios. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for fire behavior analysis, smoke management, and assessing the health risks associated with smoke exposure.