Cyanamide
Cyanamide
Cyanamide (pronounced: sigh-AN-uh-mide) is a chemical compound with the formula CN2H2. This white solid is widely used in agriculture and the production of pharmaceuticals and other organic compounds. It is also an intermediate in the urea cycle, which is nature's way of removing excess nitrogen from the body.
Etymology
The term "cyanamide" comes from the Greek words kyanos meaning "dark blue" and amide which is a type of organic compound containing nitrogen. The name reflects the compound's ability to produce blue pigments when combined with certain metals.
Related Terms
- Amide: A type of organic compound that contains a carbonyl group (C=O) linked to a nitrogen atom.
- Urea cycle: A series of biochemical reactions that produces urea ((NH2)2CO) from ammonia (NH3). This cycle occurs in all mammals to remove excess nitrogen from the body.
- Cyanogen: A colorless, toxic gas with the formula (CN)2. It is a pseudohalogen and a precursor to cyanamide.
- Calcium cyanamide: A compound with the formula CaCN2. It is used as a fertilizer and weed killer.
Uses
Cyanamide is used in the production of various pharmaceuticals and pesticides. It is also used as a stabilizer for certain types of polymers and as a precursor to other chemical compounds.
Safety
Exposure to cyanamide can cause skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues. It is important to handle this compound with care and use appropriate safety equipment.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cyanamide
- Wikipedia's article - Cyanamide
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