Cyanide Group
Definition:
The "cyanide group" refers to a specific group of atoms in chemistry that includes a carbon atom (C) and a nitrogen atom (N) connected together, represented as -CN. This group is often found in various chemical compounds and is known for its toxic properties.
Usage Instructions:
- In chemical formulas, you will see the cyanide group attached to other elements or compounds. For example, in sodium cyanide (NaCN), the cyanide group is combined with sodium (Na). - Use it when discussing chemistry, especially topics related to organic chemistry or toxicology.
Example Sentence:
"The cyanide group is present in compounds that can be very dangerous if ingested."
Advanced Usage:
In more complex discussions, you might encounter terms like "nitriles," which are organic compounds that contain the cyanide group. Chemists often study the behavior of the cyanide group in various reactions to understand its properties better.
Word Variants:
- Cyanide (noun): Refers to any chemical compound that contains the cyanide group, often known for its toxicity. For example, potassium cyanide (KCN) is a well-known cyanide compound. - Cyanogenic (adjective): Describing substances that can produce cyanide when they are metabolized.
Different Meanings:
- In a general sense, "cyanide" refers to the toxic compound as a whole, while "cyanide group" specifically refers to the -CN part of the molecule.
Synonyms:
- There are no direct synonyms for "cyanide group" as it is a specific term; however, you might hear "nitrile" in different contexts referring to similar compounds.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically include "cyanide group," as it is a scientific term.
In summary, the "cyanide group" is an important concept in chemistry, especially when studying the properties and dangers of certain compounds.