Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Practice Exam

Nicotine is the primary component in tobacco smoke responsible for creating addiction. This is due to its potent effects on the brain's reward system. When nicotine is inhaled, it quickly reaches the brain and stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which enhances feelings of pleasure and relaxation. Over time, the brain becomes conditioned to associate these effects with nicotine, leading to a compulsion to continue using tobacco products to achieve the same pleasurable sensations.

Other components in tobacco smoke, such as tar, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde, have various harmful effects on health but do not contribute to the addictive properties of tobacco. Tar can lead to respiratory problems and lung disease, carbon monoxide impairs oxygen delivery in the body, and formaldehyde is a toxic substance linked to cancer. However, none of these substances possess the capacity to create dependence or addiction as nicotine does, making nicotine the key driver behind tobacco addiction.