Cyanide
Cyanide
Cyanide (pronounced: /ˈsaɪənaɪd/) is a chemical compound that contains the group C≡N. This group, known as the cyano group, consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom.
Etymology
The term "cyanide" is derived from the Greek word 'kyanos', meaning "dark blue". This is due to the fact that many cyanide compounds were originally noted for their blue coloration.
Description
Cyanides can exist in many forms, including salts, organic compounds, and gases. They are highly toxic and can be lethal in high concentrations. Cyanides are used in a variety of industrial applications, including mining, electroplating, and synthetic organic chemistry.
Related Terms
- Hydrogen cyanide: A colorless, extremely poisonous liquid that boils slightly above room temperature.
- Cyanogenesis: The biosynthetic pathway by which the cyanide ion is produced in plants.
- Cyanohydrin: A functional group found in organic compounds where a cyano and a hydroxyl group are attached to the same carbon atom.
- Cyanogenic glycosides: Naturally occurring compounds found in a variety of plants that can release cyanide when metabolized.
Health Effects
Exposure to high levels of cyanide can result in a variety of health effects, including headaches, dizziness, confusion, and even death. The lethal dose for humans is typically considered to be between 1.5 and 3.0 mg/kg of body weight.
Treatment
Treatment for cyanide poisoning typically involves the administration of a cyanide antidote, such as hydroxocobalamin, which binds to the cyanide ions and helps to eliminate them from the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cyanide
- Wikipedia's article - Cyanide
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