TRICHLOROMETHANE Meaning and
Definition
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Trichloromethane, also commonly referred to as chloroform, is a chemical compound that consists of three chlorine atoms bonded to a single carbon atom. It has a chemical formula of CHCl3 and a molecular weight of 119.38 grams per mole. Trichloromethane is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, ethereal odor.
Trichloromethane is primarily used as a solvent and a reagent in various industrial and laboratory applications. It has excellent solubility in many organic solvents, making it useful for dissolving various substances, such as fats, oils, and resins. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of dyes, drugs, and other pharmaceutical products.
In the past, trichloromethane was widely utilized as an industrial solvent, an anesthetic, and even as an agent for extracting fats from milk. However, due to its toxic and carcinogenic properties, its use has significantly diminished over time. Prolonged exposure to trichloromethane can cause severe health issues, including liver and kidney damage, respiratory problems, and even cancer.
Trichloromethane is volatile and can easily vaporize, forming a vapor that is heavier than air. It is important to handle this substance with caution, using proper protective equipment and following safety guidelines. When trichloromethane is released into the environment, it can contribute to air pollution and potentially contaminate water sources.
In conclusion, trichloromethane is a volatile liquid compound with a formula of CHCl3, commonly known as chloroform. It is primarily utilized as a solvent and reagent in various industrial and laboratory applications, with notable applications in the production of dyes and pharmaceuticals.
Common Misspellings for TRICHLOROMETHANE
- rrichloromethane
- frichloromethane
- grichloromethane
- yrichloromethane
- 6richloromethane
- 5richloromethane
- teichloromethane
- tdichloromethane
- tfichloromethane
- ttichloromethane
- t5ichloromethane
- t4ichloromethane
- truchloromethane
- trjchloromethane
- trkchloromethane
- trochloromethane
- tr9chloromethane
- tr8chloromethane
- trixhloromethane
Etymology of TRICHLOROMETHANE
The word "trichloromethane" is derived from several components:
1. "Tri-" is a prefix that indicates "three" or "three times".
2. "Chloro-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "chloros", meaning "greenish-yellow". "Chloro-" denotes the presence of chlorine in a compound.
3. "Methane" is a compound composed of one carbon atom (denoted by "meth-") and four hydrogen atoms. It originates from the Greek word "methy", meaning "wine". The term "methane" was coined in combination with various prefixes to indicate different arrangements and substitutions of carbon and hydrogen atoms.
Combining these elements, "trichloromethane" refers to a compound composed of one carbon atom and three chlorine atoms, resulting in the chemical formula CHCl₃. This compound is more commonly known as chloroform.
Similar spelling words for TRICHLOROMETHANE
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