AMMONIUM CYANIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Ammonium cyanide is a highly toxic, inorganic compound with the chemical formula NH₄CN. It is composed of ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and cyanide ions (CN⁻). The compound is typically a white crystalline solid, although it can also exist as a colorless liquid. Ammonium cyanide is highly soluble in water, further enhancing its reactivity.
Ammonium cyanide is primarily used as a laboratory reagent, especially in synthetic organic chemistry, due to its ability to release toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) gas upon decomposition. This property makes it particularly valuable as a starting material in the production of various cyanide compounds. It can also be utilized in chemical synthesis for the preparation of pharmaceuticals and dyes. However, its usage is strictly controlled due to its extreme toxicity.
Being a cyanide compound, ammonium cyanide poses serious health risks and is considered a highly dangerous substance. It is extremely poisonous and can be fatal if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Exposure to ammonium cyanide can lead to severe toxicity symptoms such as respiratory distress, dizziness, nausea, convulsions, and, in extreme cases, coma or death.
Due to its hazardous nature, ammonium cyanide requires proper handling and storage. It should be kept in tightly sealed containers, away from heat, open flames, and incompatible substances. Protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection, is essential while working with this compound. Additionally, strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations is necessary for its use to avoid any potential accidents or harm to human health.
Etymology of AMMONIUM CYANIDE
The term "ammonium cyanide" is derived from the combination of two separate compounds: "ammonium" and "cyanide".
- Ammonium: The word "ammonium" traces back to the ancient city of Ammon in Libya, where the Egyptian deity Ammon was worshiped. This deity was often depicted with the head of a ram, and the word "ammonium" was used to describe a salt derived from the urine of rams. In 1808, the English chemist Humphry Davy coined the term "ammonium" to refer to the compound formed by the combination of ammonia (NH3) and a hydrogen ion (H+). It became a standardized name in chemistry to describe compounds that include the NH4+ cation.
- Cyanide: The word "cyanide" originates from the Ancient Greek word "kyanos", which means dark blue.
