OXOMETHANE Meaning and
Definition
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Oxomethane is a chemical compound typically known as formaldehyde or methanal, with the chemical formula CH2O. It is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, consisting of a carbon atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms and an oxygen atom. Oxomethane is highly reactive and exists in a gaseous state at room temperature.
Oxomethane is primarily used in industrial processes as a precursor to other chemicals and materials, including plastics, resins, and textiles. Its range of applications extends to the production of fertilizers and various pharmaceutical intermediates. It is also utilized as a disinfectant, due to its ability to kill bacteria and viruses effectively.
In addition to industrial uses, oxomethane is employed in medical laboratories as a fixative for biological tissues. It is commonly utilized to preserve tissue samples for microscopic examination, preventing decay and maintaining their structural integrity.
Although oxomethane has numerous applications, it is crucial to handle it with caution due to its toxic and irritant nature. Inhalation or excessive exposure to formaldehyde vapor may lead to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and skin sensitization. Consequently, safety measures are essential when using and handling oxomethane, including proper ventilation, protective equipment, and adherence to recommended exposure limits.
To summarize, oxomethane, or formaldehyde, is a highly reactive gas utilized in various industries as a precursor to other compounds, as well as a fixative in medical laboratories. Its importance across different sectors emphasizes the necessity for appropriate safety protocols to prevent potential health risks.
Common Misspellings for OXOMETHANE
- ixomethane
- kxomethane
- lxomethane
- pxomethane
- 0xomethane
- 9xomethane
- ozomethane
- ocomethane
- odomethane
- osomethane
- oxkmethane
- oxlmethane
- oxpmethane
- ox0methane
- ox9methane
- oxonethane
- oxokethane
- oxojethane
- oxomwthane
- oxomsthane
Etymology of OXOMETHANE
The word "Oxomethane" is a chemical compound composed of oxygen (oxo-) and methane. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Oxo-: The prefix "oxo-" originates from the Greek word "oxus", meaning "sharp" or "acid". In chemistry, it is used as shorthand to denote the presence of an oxygen atom or a doubly bonded oxygen atom (carbonyl group) in a molecule.
2. Methane: The word "methane" comes from the combination of two elements. "Meth-" is derived from the ancient Greek word "methy" meaning "wine", as methane was originally obtained by the destructive distillation of wood, releasing a gas that could be ignited.
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