PHENYLMERCURY COMPOUNDS Meaning and
Definition
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Phenylmercury compounds are a class of chemical compounds that consist of a phenyl group attached to a mercury atom. The phenyl group is a benzene ring, which is a six-membered carbon ring with alternating single and double bonds. The mercury atom is a heavy metal element found in the periodic table with the symbol Hg.
These compounds are commonly used in industrial settings as antimicrobial agents, fungicides, and as intermediates in the production of other chemicals. They exhibit toxicological properties and are considered environmentally hazardous due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Exposure to phenylmercury compounds can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact. The toxic effects of these compounds predominantly affect the central nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms of acute or high-level exposure may include gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory issues, irritability, insomnia, and tremors. Long-term exposure to these compounds can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, resulting in symptoms such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and coordination problems.
Due to their potential harm to human health and the environment, the use of phenylmercury compounds has been significantly restricted or banned in many countries. Strict regulations and safety measures are in place to minimize exposure and ensure safe handling and disposal of these compounds.
Common Misspellings for PHENYLMERCURY COMPOUNDS
- ohenylmercury compounds
- lhenylmercury compounds
- -henylmercury compounds
- 0henylmercury compounds
- pgenylmercury compounds
- pbenylmercury compounds
- pnenylmercury compounds
- pjenylmercury compounds
- puenylmercury compounds
- pyenylmercury compounds
- phwnylmercury compounds
- phsnylmercury compounds
- phdnylmercury compounds
- phrnylmercury compounds
- ph4nylmercury compounds
- ph3nylmercury compounds
- phebylmercury compounds
- phemylmercury compounds
- phejylmercury compounds
- phehylmercury compounds
Etymology of PHENYLMERCURY COMPOUNDS
The word "Phenylmercury" is derived from two components: "phenyl" and "mercury".
1. "Phenyl" is derived from the word "phenyl", which comes from the French word "phényle" and ultimately from the Greek word "phaino", meaning to appear or show. In organic chemistry, phenyl refers to a aromatic moiety composed of a benzene ring (C6H5-), often used as a substituent or prefix in compound names.
2. "Mercury" originates from the Latin word "hydrargyrum", which means "liquid silver". "Hydrargyrum" is a combination of "hydr-" as in water and "argyros" meaning silver. The word "mercury" refers to the chemical element with the symbol "Hg" in the periodic table.
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