Triiodomethane, also known as iodoform, is a molecular compound consisting of carbon, iodine, and hydrogen. The spelling of this word can be quite perplexing due to the unique combination of letters. In IPA phonetic transcription, triiodomethane is pronounced as /traɪˌaɪədəʊˈmiːθeɪn/. The "tri" prefix denotes three iodine atoms, while "iodo" refers to the presence of iodine. "Methane" refers to the hydrocarbon structure, which consists of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the spelling representation aptly depicts the chemical makeup of triiodomethane.
Triiodomethane, also known as iodoform, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula CHI3. It is a yellow crystalline solid that has a distinct odor, similar to that of antiseptics. Triiodomethane is composed of one carbon atom bonded with three iodine atoms. Each iodine atom shares its three electrons to form a covalent bond with the carbon atom.
Triiodomethane has a wide range of applications in different industries, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, and as an antiseptic agent. It is commonly used as a disinfectant due to its strong antimicrobial properties. By oxidizing cellular proteins and other molecules, it effectively kills many types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Additionally, it has been historically employed in surgical procedures as a topical antiseptic.
In pharmaceuticals, triiodomethane has been used as a precursor to synthesize other complex chemical compounds. It can be employed as a starting material in the manufacture of certain drugs, such as diethylstilbestrol and thyroxine.
Despite its various applications, triiodomethane should be handled with caution as it poses potential health risks. Prolonged exposure to iodoform can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It is also considered harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Therefore, appropriate safety measures, including the use of protective gloves and goggles, should be taken when working with triiodomethane.
Iodoform.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "triiodomethane" is a chemical compound name derived from its molecular structure and the elements it contains. The compound is composed of three atoms of iodine (I) and one atom of carbon (C), with the formula CHI3. "Tri" in the name refers to the presence of three iodine atoms.
The term "iodo" is derived from the Greek word "iodes", meaning "violet" or "purple", which is a reference to the characteristic violet color of iodine compounds. The element iodine itself is named after the Greek word "iodes" due to its violet vapors.
Lastly, "methane" refers to a hydrocarbon compound consisting of one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms. When iodine atoms replace three of the hydrogens in methane, it forms triiodomethane.