Thiocyanate

Thiocyanate (also known as sulfocyanate) is a anion derived from the pseudohalogen compound hydrogen thiocyanate. It is a common component in pyrotechnics and is used in the production of certain herbicides and fungicides. Thiocyanate is also a byproduct of the metabolism of cysteine in the body.

Chemical Structure

Thiocyanate is composed of a sulfur atom, a carbon atom, and a nitrogen atom. The sulfur atom is bonded to the carbon atom, which is in turn bonded to the nitrogen atom. This linear structure is typical of pseudohalogen compounds.

Properties

Thiocyanate is a colorless, crystalline solid that is soluble in water. It has a melting point of 149°C and a boiling point of 335°C. It is a weak base, with a pKa of 1.3.

Uses

Thiocyanate is used in a variety of applications. It is a common component in pyrotechnics, where it is used to produce a red color. It is also used in the production of certain herbicides and fungicides. In the body, thiocyanate is a byproduct of the metabolism of cysteine.

Health Effects

Exposure to thiocyanate can have a variety of health effects. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Inhalation can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Long-term exposure can lead to thyroid problems, as thiocyanate can interfere with the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland.

See Also

• Hydrogen thiocyanate
• Pseudohalogen
• Cysteine

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