DICHLORETHYL SULPHIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Dichlorethyl sulphide, also commonly known as Mustard Gas, is a highly toxic and blistering chemical compound with the chemical formula (ClCH2CH2)2S. It is categorized as a sulfur-based vesicant compound, meaning it has the ability to cause severe blistering and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon exposure.
Dichlorethyl sulphide is a volatile and colorless liquid that turns into a yellowish-brown vapor at higher temperatures. It possesses a distinct odor that is often compared to that of mustard or horseradish, thereby contributing to its common name.
Originally developed as a chemical warfare agent during World War I, dichlorethyl sulphide acts as an alkylating agent by binding to and inhibiting the DNA and protein synthesis in cells. This interference leads to severe cellular damage and disrupts normal physiological processes, possibly resulting in long-term health consequences.
Exposure to dichlorethyl sulphide causes immediate irritation, burning, and redness of the eyes, nose, and throat. The compound's primary threat, however, lies in its ability to induce severe burns on the skin, leading to painful blisters and long-lasting scars. Inhalation of the vapor can cause respiratory distress, coughing, and chest tightness, with prolonged exposure potentially causing lung damage.
Due to its extreme toxicity, dichlorethyl sulphide is strictly regulated and banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention. Strict safety precautions and protective equipment, such as gas masks and chemical-resistant clothing, are necessary when handling or working in areas potentially contaminated by this hazardous compound.
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One of the forms of mustard gas, a gas first used by the Germans in the world war; contact with the skin causes vesication and sloughing, and inhalation often results in bronchopneumonia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DICHLORETHYL SULPHIDE
- sichlorethyl sulphide
- xichlorethyl sulphide
- cichlorethyl sulphide
- fichlorethyl sulphide
- richlorethyl sulphide
- eichlorethyl sulphide
- duchlorethyl sulphide
- djchlorethyl sulphide
- dkchlorethyl sulphide
- dochlorethyl sulphide
- d9chlorethyl sulphide
- d8chlorethyl sulphide
- dixhlorethyl sulphide
- divhlorethyl sulphide
- difhlorethyl sulphide
- didhlorethyl sulphide
- dicglorethyl sulphide
- dicblorethyl sulphide
- dicnlorethyl sulphide
- dicjlorethyl sulphide
Etymology of DICHLORETHYL SULPHIDE
The term "dichlorethyl sulphide" is derived from the combination of three main components: "di", "chlor", and "ethyl sulphide".
1. "Di": In chemistry, the prefix "di-" indicates two, emphasizing the presence of two chlorine atoms in the compound.
2. "Chlor": The term "chlor" is derived from the chemical element chlorine (Cl). Chlorine is a halogen that is frequently involved in chemical compounds, particularly those containing multiple chlorine atoms.
3. "Ethyl Sulphide": "Ethyl" refers to an organic compound derived from ethane, which consists of two carbon atoms bonded together. The term "sulphide" indicates the presence of a sulfur atom.
Combining these components, "dichlorethyl sulphide" describes a chemical compound with two chlorine atoms attached to an ethyl group, which itself is attached to a sulfur atom.
Similar spelling word for DICHLORETHYL SULPHIDE
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