METHYL PARATHION Meaning and
Definition
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Methyl parathion is an organophosphate chemical compound that belongs to a class of insecticides commonly used in agricultural and household settings. With a molecular formula of C8H10NO5PS, it is a highly toxic and volatile substance. Methyl parathion is typically used as a broad-spectrum insecticide to eradicate pests such as aphids, mites, caterpillars, and beetles, which pose a threat to crops and plants.
This chemical works by irreversibly inhibiting the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for nerve function that allows the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmission of nerve impulses. By disrupting this process, methyl parathion effectively paralyzes and kills the targeted insects.
However, the toxicity of methyl parathion is not limited to pests alone. Continuous exposure or ingestion of this compound can be extremely harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. Symptoms of acute exposure to methyl parathion include headache, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure or even death. Chronic exposure may lead to neurological damage, birth defects, and various other long-term health complications.
Due to its hazardous nature, the use of methyl parathion has been highly regulated in many countries to minimize the risks associated with its application. Strict safety protocols and protective equipment are required for individuals handling or applying this compound to reduce the potential harm it can cause.
Common Misspellings for METHYL PARATHION
- nethyl parathion
- kethyl parathion
- jethyl parathion
- mwthyl parathion
- msthyl parathion
- mdthyl parathion
- mrthyl parathion
- m4thyl parathion
- m3thyl parathion
- merhyl parathion
- mefhyl parathion
- meghyl parathion
- meyhyl parathion
- me6hyl parathion
- me5hyl parathion
- metgyl parathion
- metbyl parathion
- metnyl parathion
- metjyl parathion
- metuyl parathion
Etymology of METHYL PARATHION
The word "methyl parathion" is derived from its chemical composition and structure. Here's a breakdown of each component:
1. Methyl: Methyl refers to a functional group (-CH3) consisting of a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms. It comes from the Greek word "methy", meaning "wine" or "intoxication", as the compound was initially discovered in wood spirit or methanol.
2. Parathion: Parathion is an organophosphorus compound, specifically a thiophosphoric ester. The word "parathion" is composed of two parts:
- Para: The prefix "para" indicates the location of certain groups on a benzene ring in organic chemistry, referring to the substitution pattern. In this case, the para position indicates the position of certain functional groups on the benzene ring.
