Cigarettes contain a variety of harmful chemicals, including nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, arsenic, and benzene. Nicotine is the primary addictive component, but it is the combination of these chemicals that leads to serious health issues. Tar is a sticky substance that accumulates in the lungs and is a major contributor to lung cancer. Carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to cardiovascular problems.