The word "nitrile" is spelled as /ˈnaɪtraɪl/ according to IPA phonetic transcription. This word refers to a type of organic compound that contains a cyano (-CN) functional group. It is commonly used in the production of synthetic rubber, adhesives, and plastics. The spelling of "nitrile" is derived from the chemical prefix "nitr-" which refers to the presence of nitrogen in the compound, and the suffix "-ile" which indicates that it is a member of the alkyl halide family.
Nitrile is a noun with multiple definitions, primarily related to chemistry and materials science. In chemistry, nitriles are organic compounds that consist of a carbon atom bonded to both a nitrogen atom and a carbon atom of a cyanide group (-C≡N). They are characterized by their triple bond between carbon and nitrogen, which contributes to their stability and inertness. Nitriles are commonly used as solvents or chemical intermediates in various industrial processes, including the production of synthetic fibers, pharmaceuticals, and plastics.
Another definition of nitrile refers to a type of synthetic rubber that is derived from the polymerization of acrylonitrile. This rubber is known for its exceptional resistance to chemicals, oils, and abrasion, making it widely utilized in the production of gloves, gaskets, seals, and other products where durability and resistance to various substances are essential.
Furthermore, nitrile gloves specifically refer to disposable gloves made from nitrile rubber. These gloves have become increasingly popular in various sectors, such as healthcare, research laboratories, food handling, and industry, due to their superior puncture resistance, flexibility, and protection against potentially harmful substances.
In summary, nitrile can relate to both chemical compounds with a carbon-nitrogen triple bond and a type of synthetic rubber. The term is commonly used in the context of chemistry, materials science, and related industries.
The word "nitrile" has its etymology rooted in the organic compound it represents. It is derived from the combination of two terms: "nitro" and "yl".
- "Nitro" refers to the presence of a nitrogen and oxygen group, usually denoted as -NO2, within organic chemistry. This group is often associated with the molecule nitrobenzene, it being one of the most well-known examples. The term "nitro" itself comes from the Latin "nitrum", which means "natron" or "native sodium carbonate". In this case, "nitro" indicates the presence of nitrogen in a compound.
- The suffix "-yl" in organic chemistry is often used to represent a radical, which is an atom or a group of atoms that carries an unpaired electron. This suffix is derived from the German word "üyl", which stands for "ethyl radical".