The spelling of the word "tar camphor" is intriguing because it combines two distinct substances, tar and camphor. The IPA phonetic transcription for "tar" is /tɑːr/, while for "camphor" it is /ˈkæmfər/. The word "tar" refers to a dark, viscous substance, while "camphor" is a white crystalline substance with a sharp aroma. Though the two substances seem incompatible, "tar camphor" refers to a type of camphor obtained from tar. The word's spelling accurately reflects both the pronunciation and the combination of the two elements.
Tar camphor is a naturally occurring substance derived from tar and typically found in coal tar. It is a solid, crystalline compound that possesses a distinctive aromatic odor. Tar camphor is composed mainly of hydrocarbons, including naphthalene, which is responsible for its characteristic smell.
In terms of physical properties, tar camphor crystallizes into colorless or white, needle-like crystals. It has a relatively low melting point, typically around 80-90 degrees Celsius, and is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ether and alcohol.
Due to its strong aromatic scent, tar camphor has been traditionally used in various industries. It is often employed as an ingredient in the production of mothballs, providing a strong odor that acts as a deterrent against insects and pests. Its pungent smell also makes it useful in products like air fresheners and deodorizers.
Beyond its odoriferous properties, tar camphor has been linked to traditional medicinal uses. It has been utilized as a topical treatment for relieving pain and itching associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It may also possess antimicrobial properties and has been employed in formulations for treating fungal infections.
Overall, tar camphor is a natural crystalline compound with a distinctive odor, derived from tar with a composition mainly consisting of hydrocarbons. It is utilized in a range of industrial products for its aromatic properties and has been traditionally associated with various medicinal applications.
Naphthalin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tar camphor" appears to be a combination of two separate terms: "tar" and "camphor".
- "Tar" originates from the Old English word "teoru", which refers to a thick, dark, and sticky substance produced through the distillation or destructive distillation of organic materials like wood or coal. It has roots in various ancient Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "jǫr" and Old High German "zior", all of which denote a similar substance. The term has remained relatively unchanged throughout history, maintaining its association with a viscous, black substance used for various purposes.
- "Camphor", on the other hand, derives from the Medieval Latin word "camphora", which comes from the Arabic "kāfūr". The word has its roots in Sanskrit, where it is called "karpūra".