METHYLMERCURY Meaning and
Definition
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Methylmercury is a toxic organic compound composed of one mercury atom, denoted as Hg, bonded with a methyl (CH3) group. It is a dangerous form of mercury that is produced as a result of the conversion of inorganic mercury by certain microorganisms in aquatic environments. Methylmercury is of significant concern because it easily accumulates in the food chain, specifically in fish and seafood, leading to potential health hazards when consumed by humans and animals.
Due to its organic nature, methylmercury can easily pass through living organisms’ cell membranes, causing damage to the nervous system. It has been associated with various neurodevelopmental problems, especially in fetuses and young children. The toxic effects of methylmercury on the brain can result in impairments in cognitive functions, language skills, attention span, and motor coordination.
Ingestion of methylmercury-contaminated fish is the most common route of exposure for humans. Consequently, it is essential to monitor and limit the consumption of fish known to be high in methylmercury, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children.
Effective management strategies, including monitoring of mercury levels in bodies of water, implementing pollution control measures, and raising awareness about the risks of methylmercury, are crucial in minimizing its adverse effects and safeguarding human health.
Common Misspellings for METHYLMERCURY
- nethylmercury
- kethylmercury
- jethylmercury
- mwthylmercury
- msthylmercury
- mdthylmercury
- mrthylmercury
- m4thylmercury
- m3thylmercury
- merhylmercury
- mefhylmercury
- meghylmercury
- meyhylmercury
- me6hylmercury
- me5hylmercury
- metgylmercury
- metbylmercury
- metnylmercury
- metjylmercury
Etymology of METHYLMERCURY
The word "methylmercury" consists of two parts: "methyl" and "mercury".
"Methyl" refers to the organic compound group called "methyl", which consists of a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (-CH3). It is derived from the Greek word "methy" meaning "wine", as it was originally obtained from wood alcohol.
"Mercury", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "hydrargyrum", which translates to "liquid silver". It is a chemical element with the symbol Hg on the periodic table and atomic number 80. The term "mercury" refers to the metal itself and has been used since ancient times.
Therefore, "methylmercury" is a compound formed by the addition of the organic group "methyl" to the element "mercury", indicating the presence of a methyl group attached to a mercury atom.
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