CHLORDANE Meaning and
Definition
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Chlordane is a highly toxic and persistent organochlorine pesticide that was widely used in agriculture and residential pest control from the mid-1940s to the 1980s. It is derived from polychlorinated bicyclic hydrocarbons and belongs to a class of chemicals known as cyclodiene insecticides.
Chlordane is a colorless to light yellow solid that is insoluble in water but can be dissolved in organic solvents. It is characterized by its strong odor resembling camphor. Due to its effectiveness in controlling pests, chlordane was used primarily to combat termites, ants, roaches, and other insects in homes, as well as in agricultural settings to protect crops.
However, chlordane's high toxicity and environmental persistence have raised serious concerns about its impact on human health and the ecosystem. It is classified as a suspected carcinogen and can accumulate in the fatty tissues of organisms, including humans, leading to long-term exposure risks. In addition, it can persist in the environment for several years and has been detected in soil, water, and air samples globally.
Due to its detrimental effects, chlordane was banned in many countries in the 1980s, including the United States. Its production and use have been restricted by international agreements such as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. Despite the ban, chlordane continues to be a concern due to its persistence in the environment and potential for exposure through the improper storage or disposal of old stocks.
Common Misspellings for CHLORDANE
Etymology of CHLORDANE
The word "Chlordane" is derived from its chemical composition. It is a combination of the prefix "chlor-" referring to the presence of chlorine (Cl) atoms in the compound, and the suffix "-dane" indicating the organic compound belongs to the class of cyclodienes, which have a specific structure of fused cyclohexane rings.
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