PENTASULFIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Pentasulfide is a chemical compound that consists of five sulfur atoms bonded together. It is a binary inorganic compound with the chemical formula S5^2-. The compound is known for its distinct yellow color and pungent odor.
Pentasulfide can be prepared by the reaction of elemental sulfur (S) with certain metal sulfides or polysulfides. It is mainly used as a starting material in various chemical reactions, especially in the synthesis of other sulfur compounds. Pentasulfide is also employed in the production of vulcanized rubber and in the manufacture of certain dyes and pigments.
In terms of properties, pentasulfide is highly reactive and can readily react with various organic and inorganic materials. It is soluble in a variety of organic solvents, such as acetone, ether, and carbon disulfide. However, it is insoluble in water.
Pentasulfide is a compound of significant interest in both industrial and laboratory applications due to its various chemical properties. Its reactivity and ability to form new compounds make it a valuable tool in organic synthesis and material science research. However, it is important to handle pentasulfide with caution due to its toxic nature and potential health hazards.
Etymology of PENTASULFIDE
The word "pentasulfide" comes from the combination of two parts: "penta-" and "sulfide".
1. "Penta-" is derived from the Greek word "penta", meaning five. It is commonly used as a prefix in chemistry to represent the number five. For example, "pentagon" refers to a polygon with five sides, and "pentahydrate" refers to a compound with five water molecules.
2. "Sulfide" is derived from the Latin word "sulphur", which means sulfur. In chemistry, "sulfide" is used to denote a compound formed when sulfur combines with another element or radical. For example, "iron sulfide" refers to a compound made up of iron and sulfur.
