THALLIUM CARBONATE Meaning and
Definition
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Thallium carbonate is a chemical compound with the molecular formula Tl2CO3. It is a white, odorless solid that is highly toxic and can be harmful to both humans and the environment. Thallium carbonate is composed of thallium, a soft and malleable gray metal, and carbonate, an anion consisting of carbon and oxygen atoms.
In terms of its properties, thallium carbonate is insoluble in water, meaning it does not dissolve easily. It is also insoluble in alcohol and ether. When heated, thallium carbonate decomposes, releasing toxic gases such as carbon dioxide and thallium oxide.
Due to its toxicity, thallium carbonate has limited practical applications. Historically, it was used as a rodenticide, a poison to control rodent populations. However, its usage in this context has been restricted because of its harmful effects on the environment and other non-targeted animals.
In terms of its health effects, exposure to thallium carbonate can cause various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It can also lead to neurological damage, affect the heart, and cause hair loss. In severe cases, thallium carbonate poisoning can be fatal.
Overall, thallium carbonate is a toxic chemical compound that is primarily known for its hazards to human health and the environment. It is crucial to handle it with extreme caution and ensure its proper disposal to prevent any negative consequences.
Etymology of THALLIUM CARBONATE
The word thallium derives from the Greek word thallos, meaning a green young shoot or twig. This is due to the characteristic greenish color of thallium compounds. The word carbonate comes from the Latin word carbo, meaning coal or carbon, referring to the carbon-oxygen chemical group found in the compound. So, the etymology of thallium carbonate combines the Greek origin of thallium and the Latin origin of carbonate.
