BENZPYRENE Meaning and
Definition
-
Benzpyrene, also known as benzo[a]pyrene, is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compound that belongs to the class of heterocyclic compounds. It is formed during the incomplete combustion of organic matter, particularly in processes like burning of fossil fuels, wood, and tobacco. Benzpyrene is commonly found in various sources of environmental pollution such as vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, and cigarette smoke.
The compound benzpyrene is characterized by a fused ring system consisting of five benzene rings joined together. It has a molecular formula C20H12 and a molecular weight of 252.31 grams per mole. Benzpyrene is a solid substance that appears in the form of colorless to pale yellow crystals with a distinct aromatic odor.
Benzpyrene is well-known for its high toxicity and carcinogenic properties. It is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) due to its ability to induce cancer in humans, particularly lung, skin, and prostate cancer. The compound is known to act as a powerful genotoxic agent, causing DNA damage and disrupting normal cellular processes.
The presence of benzpyrene in the environment and exposure to it through inhalation or ingestion is a matter of concern, as it can pose serious health risks. Regulatory authorities have set guidelines and limits for its permissible levels in air, water, and food to minimize the potential harm it may cause. Various industries and processes have also implemented measures to reduce benzpyrene emissions and minimize exposure to this hazardous compound.
Common Misspellings for BENZPYRENE
- benzopyrenea
- venzpyrene
- nenzpyrene
- henzpyrene
- genzpyrene
- bwnzpyrene
- bsnzpyrene
- bdnzpyrene
- brnzpyrene
- b4nzpyrene
- b3nzpyrene
- bebzpyrene
- bemzpyrene
- bejzpyrene
- behzpyrene
- benxpyrene
- benspyrene
- benapyrene
- benzoyrene
- benzlyrene
Etymology of BENZPYRENE
The word "Benzpyrene" is derived from the combination of two components: "benz" and "pyrene".
1. Benz: The term "benz" refers to the chemical compound "benzene". Benzene is a colorless liquid hydrocarbon that consists of six carbon atoms arranged in a ring structure. The name "benzene" comes from the German word "Benzin", which means "gasoline" or "petrol". The German chemist Friedrich August Kekulé is credited with discovering the structure of benzene in the mid-19th century.
2. Pyrene: Pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compound consisting of four fused benzene rings. The name "pyrene" originated from the Greek mythological figure, Pyrrha, who was the daughter of Pandora and Epimetheus and the wife of Deucalion.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
