Smelling salts
Smelling Salts
Smelling salts (pronunciation: /ˈsmɛlɪŋ sɔːlts/), also known as ammonia inhalants, are a chemical compound often used to aid in reviving consciousness.
Etymology
The term "smelling salts" originates from the English language, with "smell" referring to the sense of smell, and "salts" referring to the chemical compound. The term has been in use since the 13th century.
Usage
Smelling salts are used to restore or enhance alertness in a person who is fainting or unconscious. They work by releasing ammonia gas, which triggers an inhalation reflex by irritating the mucous membranes of the nose and lungs.
Composition
Smelling salts are composed of ammonium carbonate, a compound that releases ammonia gas. They may also contain perfume to mask the strong smell of ammonia.
Related Terms
- Ammonia: A colorless gas with a characteristic pungent smell. It is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula NH3.
- Ammonium carbonate: A salt with the formula (NH4)2CO3, commonly used in smelling salts.
- Inhalation reflex: A reflex triggered by certain irritants that leads to a deeper than normal breath.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Smelling salts
- Wikipedia's article - Smelling salts
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