Acrolein is a chemical compound with the formula CH₂=CHCHO. Pronounced as "ækrəʊliːn", it is commonly used in the production of paper, textiles, and plastics. The spelling of the word acrolein can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. In this transcription, "a" is pronounced as "æ", "o" as "əʊ", "l" as "liː", and "n" as "n". The "c" is silent in the word acrolein. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of acrolein is "ækrəʊliːn".
Acrolein is a colorless, pungent, and flammable liquid compound with the chemical formula C3H4O. It is an unsaturated organic compound belonging to the aldehyde family. Acrolein is highly volatile and possesses a characteristic odor, described as sharp, intensely irritating, and somewhat similar to that of burnt metal or acrid grease.
Acrolein is primarily used in industrial processes, such as the production of acrylic acid, glycerin, and butadiene. It is also a significant component of tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust fumes, making it present in the environment and a potential air pollutant. Due to its toxicity, acrolein has garnered considerable interest in health and environmental research.
In terms of health hazards, acrolein is known to have corrosive properties and can cause severe eye and skin irritation. Inhalation of acrolein can lead to respiratory distress and damage to the respiratory system, while high levels of exposure may cause pulmonary edema or even death. Long-term exposure may result in chronic respiratory issues and increased risk of developing lung diseases.
In addition, acrolein also poses a threat to the environment. It is toxic to aquatic life and is rapidly absorbed by soil, eventually finding its way into water bodies and contaminating ecosystems. This compound can persist in the environment, making it a potential long-term pollutant.
Given its industrial applications and potential health and environmental concerns, research and regulation surrounding acrolein aim to minimize its adverse effects on human health and safeguard ecosystems.
Allyl aldehyde, a light volatile oily liquid, giving off irritant vapor, derived from glycerin by heating alone or heating with acid potassium sulphate or phosphoric anhydride.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "acrolein" comes from the combination of two terms: "acrid" and "oleum".
1. "Acrid" derives from the Latin word "acris", meaning sharp, pungent, or bitter. It later evolved in French to become "acride" with the same meaning.
2. "Oleum" originates from the Latin word "oleum", which means oil or grease.
When combined, the terms "acrid" and "oleum" form "acrolein". This word was first used in the 19th century to classify a toxic, volatile compound with a strong, pungent odor.