A cigarette is a product made from tobacco, other plant materials, and chemicals that are usually wrapped in paper or a material that does not burn easily. Cigarettes are smoked for their nicotine content, which is a stimulant, and for the flavor of the smoke.
Ingredients of a Cigarette
Cigarettes contain a variety of ingredients, including:
Tobacco: Tobacco is the primary ingredient in cigarettes and is what gives it its nicotine content. It is also the source of the flavor and aroma of the smoke.
Additives: Additives are chemicals that are added to cigarettes to improve the taste, enhance the flavor, or to make the smoke less harsh. Some of the most common additives are sugar, menthol, and glycerin.
Paper: Cigarette paper is the material that is used to wrap the tobacco and other ingredients. It is made from a variety of materials, including wood pulp, rice paper, and even plastic.
Filters: Filters are designed to reduce the amount of tar and nicotine that are inhaled when smoking. They also help to reduce the amount of smoke that is emitted from the cigarette.
Hazards of Cigarette Smoke
Cigarette smoke contains many hazardous substances, including:
Tar: Tar is a mixture of chemicals that are released when tobacco burns. Tar can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer and other respiratory illnesses.
Nicotine: Nicotine is a stimulant that can be addictive. It is also responsible for the "buzz" that smokers experience when smoking.
Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can cause serious health problems. It is a byproduct of burning tobacco and is released in cigarette smoke.
Other Chemicals: Cigarette smoke also contains a variety of other chemicals, including formaldehyde, benzene, and acetone. These chemicals are known to be harmful to human health.