FERRIC FERROCYANIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Ferric ferrocyanide, also known as Prussian blue, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3. It is a blue-colored pigment that is widely used in various applications.
In terms of its chemical structure, ferric ferrocyanide consists of iron (Fe) cations coordinated to the cyanide (CN) anions in a cubic lattice. Each iron cation is surrounded by six cyanide ligands in an octahedral arrangement. The compound forms stable, insoluble crystals that display intense blue coloration due to its absorption and scattering of light at specific wavelengths.
Ferric ferrocyanide has been utilized for centuries as a pigment in art and dyeing. It offers exceptional permanence, lightfastness, and stability, making it a popular choice for paint, ink, and textile dye production. Furthermore, it serves as a colorant in various industrial applications, such as for coloring ceramics, glass, plastics, and even cosmetics.
Beyond its use as a pigment, ferric ferrocyanide also possesses certain medicinal properties. It has been employed as an antidote for certain heavy metal poisonings, particularly thallium and cesium. Due to its unique structure, Prussian blue can effectively bind these toxic metals, preventing their absorption and facilitating their elimination from the body.
In conclusion, ferric ferrocyanide is a blue-colored pigment with the chemical formula Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3. It is widely used in art, dyeing, and various industrial applications due to its stability and colorfastness. Additionally, it has medical applications as an antidote for heavy metal poisoning.
Etymology of FERRIC FERROCYANIDE
The word "ferric ferrocyanide" is a compound term combining two parts: "ferric" and "ferrocyanide".
1. Ferric: The term "ferric" derives from the Latin word "ferreus", meaning "made of iron" or "iron". It is derived from the element "iron", which originated from the Old English/Iron Age Germanic word "isarn" or "iarn".
2. Ferrocyanide: The term "ferrocyanide" is a combination of two components: "ferro" and "cyanide".
- "Ferro" refers to the Latin word for "iron".
- "Cyanide" comes from the French word "cyanure" and is derived from the Greek word "kyanos", meaning "dark blue".
