The cyano group, also known as the nitrile group, is a chemical group consisting of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. Its spelling is pronounced /saɪənoʊ/, with the initial "c" pronounced as an "s" sound. The "y" is pronounced as an "i" sound, followed by a long "o" sound. The final "o" is also pronounced as a long vowel sound, and the stress is placed on the second syllable. This pronunciation is essential for accurately communicating and discussing chemical compounds that contain the cyano group.
The term "cyano group" refers to a chemical functional group that is typically represented by the chemical formula -C≡N. It is composed of a carbon atom (C) bonded to a nitrogen atom (N) by a triple bond (≡). The cyano group is also known as the "nitrile group" or "cyanide group."
The cyano group is relatively stable and is frequently found in a wide range of organic compounds, inorganic salts, and coordination complexes. A distinguishing characteristic of this group is its ability to act as an electron-withdrawing group due to the high electronegativity of nitrogen. This property makes cyano groups important in many chemical reactions and applications.
The cyano group can be introduced into a molecule through various synthetic methods, including addition of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) or the reaction of certain organometallic compounds with cyanide salts. It is commonly found in compounds such as acrylonitrile, vinyl cyanide, and benzyl cyanide, among others.
The presence of cyano groups in organic compounds can influence their chemical and physical properties. For example, the cyano groups can increase the boiling point, solubility in water, and stability of the compound. Additionally, the group can participate in various reactions, including nucleophilic substitution, reduction, and hydrolysis.
In summary, the cyano group is a chemical functional group composed of a carbon and nitrogen atom bonded by a triple bond. Its electron-withdrawing nature and widespread presence in various compounds make it an important component in pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other industries.
The word "cyano" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "kuanos" meaning "dark blue", which became "cyanos" in Greek. It was later adopted into Latin as "cyaneus" and eventually transformed into "cyano" in modern scientific terminology. The term "group" in this context refers to a functional group in chemistry, indicating a set of atoms that are bonded together and exhibit similar chemical properties. Thus, the term "cyano group" refers to a functional group consisting of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom (C≡N), commonly found in various chemical compounds.