Chemical affinity Memes

The ultimate biochemical betrayal! Hemoglobin is supposed to bind with oxygen to keep us alive, but it has a dirty secret - it binds to carbon monoxide 200 times more strongly! That's why CO is so dangerous - your blood cells literally ditch oxygen for carbon monoxide like it's the hottest new molecule at the cellular club. The Elmo meme perfectly captures hemoglobin's chemical "preferences" - politely acknowledging oxygen while absolutely RACING to grab that sweet, sweet carbon monoxide. Your own blood proteins are basically thirsty traitors with no loyalty to your survival needs!