MERCURY FULMINATE Meaning and
Definition
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Mercury fulminate is a highly explosive compound often used in small amounts as a detonator in explosives due to its extreme sensitivity to shock and friction. It is a primary explosive, which means it can be easily initiated with a minimal amount of energy input. The compound is composed of mercury, carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen, with the chemical formula Hg(CNO)₂.
Mercury fulminate is a white crystalline solid that is highly unstable and reactive. It is typically formed by reacting mercury with nitric acid and ethanol, resulting in the formation of small, needle-shaped crystals. These crystals are highly sensitive to heat, impact, and contact with other substances and can explode with great force when disturbed.
The compound was first discovered in the early 19th century and quickly gained recognition for its explosive properties. Due to its extreme volatility, it is primarily used as a detonator or initiator in explosives to ensure reliable and efficient detonation. Its explosive power comes from the rapid release of gases produced during its decomposition.
Given its highly dangerous nature, mercury fulminate poses significant risks and must be handled with extreme caution by trained professionals with appropriate safety measures. It is typically stored in specially designed containers away from sources of heat, friction, or impact. Beyond its use in explosives, mercury fulminate has limited commercial applications but continues to be an essential component in pyrotechnics and some specialty chemicals.
Common Misspellings for MERCURY FULMINATE
- nercury fulminate
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- jercury fulminate
- mwrcury fulminate
- msrcury fulminate
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- merdury fulminate
Etymology of MERCURY FULMINATE
The word "mercury fulminate" has its origins in Latin and English.
"Mercury" comes from the Latin word "hydrargyrum", which means "liquid silver". This term was used to refer to the element mercury because of its silvery appearance in liquid form.
"Fulminate" has a Latin origin as well, derived from the word "fulminare", which means "to strike with lightning" or "to thunder". It is the root of the English word "fulminate", which means "to protest vehemently" or "to explode violently".
When these two terms are combined, "mercury fulminate" refers to a compound made up of mercury and fulminate. This specific compound is known for its explosive properties, hence the reference to thunder and lightning in its name.
Similar spelling words for MERCURY FULMINATE
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