Sulphureted hydrogen, also known as hydrogen sulfide, is a chemical compound with the chemical formula H2S. It is a colorless gas with a characteristic foul odor, often described as "rotten eggs." The spelling of "sulphureted" is due to the element sulfur being spelled with a "ph" in British English. The phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈsʌlfjʊərɛtɪd/ /haɪˈdrɒdʒən/. This compound is commonly released during the decay of organic matter, and can also be found in natural gas and volcanic gases.
Sulphureted hydrogen, also known as hydrogen sulphide, is a colorless, flammable, and toxic gas with a distinct smell similar to rotten eggs. It is composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one sulphur atom, represented by the chemical formula H2S.
This compound is commonly found in natural gas, petroleum, and volcanic gases, as well as in various industrial processes, sewage systems, and other sources. Although it is essential for some biological processes, sulphureted hydrogen can be harmful and even fatal when present in high concentrations.
Exposure to sulphureted hydrogen can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Inhalation of this gas can cause symptoms such as respiratory tract irritation, eye irritation, headache, dizziness, nausea, and even loss of consciousness or death, depending on the concentration and duration of exposure. Prolonged exposure to low levels of the gas may result in fatigue, loss of appetite, and other chronic health effects.
In addition to its toxic properties, sulphureted hydrogen is flammable and explosive, creating a potential fire and explosion hazard. Its distinctive odor, even at low concentrations, acts as a warning sign for the presence of this hazardous gas.
Industrial and safety measures are employed to detect, monitor, and control sulphureted hydrogen levels, including the use of gas detectors and proper ventilation systems.
H. sulphide, H2S, a colorless, inflammable gas of fetid odor, formed in the decomposition of organic matter containing sulphur.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sulphureted hydrogen" is composed of two key components: "sulphureted" and "hydrogen".
1. Sulphureted: The term "sulphureted" originates from the word "sulfur", which refers to the chemical element with the atomic number 16. The word "sulfur" itself comes from the Latin term "sulfur" or "sulpur", which has Indo-European roots. Its precise etymology can be traced back to the Sanskrit word "śulbāri", meaning "sulfur" or "brimstone". From Sanskrit, it passed through various other languages, such as Persian and Arabic, before reaching Latin and English.
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