CLATHRATE COMPOUND Meaning and
Definition
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A clathrate compound, also known as a clathrate hydrate, is a unique type of chemical compound characterized by a lattice-like structure in which gas molecules are trapped or enclosed within cavities formed by the host molecules. It is primarily composed of water molecules, with each unit cell consisting of a cage-like structure made up of water molecules arranged in a crystal lattice pattern. In these cavities, small gas molecules such as methane, carbon dioxide, or hydrogen can be encapsulated through weak intermolecular forces, mainly van der Waals interactions.
Clathrate compounds are often observed under specific conditions of pressure and temperature, typically found in deep-sea sediments, permafrost environments, or natural gas pipelines. These compounds have unique physical properties due to the presence of the gas inclusions, including higher density, decreased thermal conductivity, and increased stability compared to pure water or gas.
Clathrate compounds have gained significant scientific interest due to their potential applications, particularly in relation to the storage and transportation of gases. The large volume available within the lattice structure of clathrates allows for the storage and sequestration of gases, making them a potential solution for future energy storage and environmental mitigation. However, the release of trapped gases from clathrates can also lead to hazardous events, such as hydrate dissociation in oil and gas pipelines.
Etymology of CLATHRATE COMPOUND
The word "clathrate" comes from the Latin word "clathratus", which means "made like a lattice or with bars". It is derived from the verb "clathrare", meaning "to imprison" or "to enclose with bars or trellis". The term "clathrate" was introduced into English in the early 19th century to describe a certain type of structure.
The word "compound" has a separate etymology. It comes from the Latin word "componere", which means "to put together" or "to arrange". In English, "compound" refers to a substance formed by the combination of two or more elements.
So, "clathrate compound" essentially refers to a compound with a lattice-like or cage-like structure.
