NICKEL TETRACARBONYL Meaning and
Definition
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Nickel tetracarbonyl is a coordination compound with the chemical formula Ni(CO)4. It is a colorless, volatile liquid that is commonly used in various industrial applications.
In terms of its structure, nickel tetracarbonyl consists of a central nickel atom coordinated to four carbon monoxide ligands. The carbon monoxide molecules bond to the nickel atom through their carbon ends, forming a square planar geometry around the central nickel atom.
Nickel tetracarbonyl is primarily used as a precursor in the production of high-purity nickel, as well as a catalyst in various chemical reactions. It finds extensive use in the chemical industry for the synthesis of other nickel compounds or as a catalyst in organic reactions.
The compound has a low volatility and is highly toxic and flammable. Therefore, proper safety precautions should be taken when handling nickel tetracarbonyl, as exposure to it through inhalation or skin contact can lead to severe health hazards. Its toxic nature arises from the release of carbon monoxide gas upon heating or decomposition, which can cause respiratory problems or even prove fatal.
Nickel tetracarbonyl holds significant importance in the field of organometallic chemistry, where it serves as a model compound for studying the bonding and reactivity of transition metal carbonyls. Its unique properties and reactivity make it a valuable compound in both academic research and industrial applications.
Etymology of NICKEL TETRACARBONYL
The term "nickel tetracarbonyl" is derived from the combination of two parts: "nickel" and "tetracarbonyl".
1. Nickel: The word "nickel" comes from the German term "kupfer-nickel", which translates to "devil's copper". This name was given to the mineral because when miners encountered it while searching for copper, it made their mining operations difficult. Eventually, the mineral was identified as a distinct metallic element and named "nickel" in 1751.
2. Tetracarbonyl: The term "tetracarbonyl" is a combination of the Latin prefix "tetra-", meaning "four", and the word "carbonyl" derived from "carbon". It indicates that there are four carbon monoxide (CO) ligands bonded to a central atom in the compound.
