POTASSII CYANIDUM Meaning and
Definition
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Potassii cyanidum, commonly known as potassium cyanide, is a highly toxic inorganic compound with the chemical formula KCN. It is a white crystalline substance that is soluble in water and has a distinct scent of bitter almonds. Potassium cyanide is widely known for its lethal properties and is classified as a powerful poison.
Potassii cyanidum is primarily used in various industrial processes, such as gold mining and electroplating, due to its ability to react with certain metals to form stable complexes. It is often employed as a reagent in these industries to separate precious metals from ores and to enhance the surface properties of metals during electroplating.
However, the high toxicity of potassii cyanidum makes it extremely dangerous, and handling it requires utmost caution. Ingestion, inhalation, or even direct contact with this compound can lead to severe poisoning, affecting the central nervous system and disrupting cellular respiration. Symptoms of potassium cyanide poisoning may include dizziness, rapid breathing, confusion, and eventually loss of consciousness and death.
Due to its lethal nature, strict regulations govern the handling, storage, and transportation of potassii cyanidum in many countries. Its distribution is often heavily restricted to authorized personnel and specialized industries, and it is treated as a controlled substance.
In conclusion, potassii cyanidum is a highly toxic, white crystalline compound used in industrial applications, primarily in gold mining and electroplating. While its chemical properties make it useful for certain processes, it requires rigorous precautions to avoid accidental exposure, as it can cause severe health risks and even be fatal.
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Potassium cyanide, KCN, a white granular powder having the odor, when moist, of hydrocyanic acid, deliquescent and soluble in water; employed to meet the same indications as diluted hydrocyanic acid, in doses of gr. 1/12-1/8 (0.005-0.008).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POTASSII CYANIDUM
Etymology of POTASSII CYANIDUM
The word "potassii cyanidum" is a chemical term that consists of the elements "potassii" (potassium) and "cyanidum" (cyanide). The etymology of these terms is as follows:
- "Potassii": The term "potassii" is derived from the Latin word "potassa", which means potash. Potash refers to various potassium compounds that are obtained from the ashes of burnt wood or other organic materials. The term "potassium" itself comes from the English word "potash", which is a combination of "pot" (referring to a pot used for boiling ashes) and "ash".
- "Cyanidum": The term "cyanidum" is derived from the Greek word "kyanos", which means dark blue. It is related to the blue color often associated with compounds containing cyanide.
