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68 Cards in this Set
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Hydrochloric acid is a colorless to slightly yellow fuming liquid with a pungent and irritating odor.
Chemical Formula: HCl Other names: Hydrogen Chloride Layman's explanation: Hydrochloric acid (or hydrogen chloride) can be a colorless liquid with a sharp odor or a colorless to slightly yellow gas. It is a strong acid (it ionizes completely in aqueous solution) and highly corrosive. HCl is widely used as a laboratory reagent in the production of chlorides, in organic synthesis, ore reduction, hydrolyzing of starch and proteins, in the preparation of various food products, metal cleaning and pickling, for instance, and pharmaceutics acidifier. HCI is widely used in the manufacture e.g., in the conversion of cornstarch to syrup, in sugar refining, electroplating, soap refining, leather tanning etc. It is also used to remove scale and dust from boilers and heat exchange equipment, to clean membranes in desalination plants, increase oil well output and prepare metals for coatings. Keywords: Strong Acid, corrosive, disinfectant |
Hydrochloric acid (if in aqueous solution)
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Hydrogen Bromide is a component of volcano gas.
Chemical Formula: HBr Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Bromide is a colorless, corrosive, irritating, nonflammable, toxic gas with a suffocating odor. It is shipped as a liquefied gas under its own vapor pressure and used in chemical reactions, most often in pharmaceutical applications. It is also used in the semiconductor industry in combination with hydrogen chloride and chlorine for plasma etching of polysilicon. The selectivity and etch rate of HBr is strongly dependant upon the gas purity and the consistency of that purity. |
Hydrogen Bromide
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Cyanide is a chemical asphyxiant; it stops the tissue from utilizing oxygen which makes it a potentially fatal poison.
Chemical Formula: CN Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Cyanide does not exist in many organisms because it can be fatal, although there are a few exceptions: tiger beetles, millipedes and centipedes. When these species are attacked, they release the cyanide to deter and potentially kill the aggressor. These exceptional organisms obtain the cyanogenic compound from their food but rather than being poisoned, they store it in their cells. This unusual phenomenon is still being studied. Hydrogen cyanide is produced in large quantities all over the world by the chemical industry where it is used in tempering steel, dyeing, explosives, engraving, the production of acrylic resin plastic, and other organic chemical products. Hydrogen cyanide can be found in small quantities in fruits that have a pit, such as cherries or apricots. Bitter almonds from which almond oil and flavoring is made also contain hydrogen cyanide. Keywords: millipedes, dyes, fruits, centipedes |
Hydrogen Cyanide
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Hydrogen fluoride can be a colorless gas or a fuming liquid with a strong an irritating odor.
Chemical Formula: HF Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Fluoride, also known as hydrofluoric acid, is an inorganic acid mainly used for producing fluorine-containing materials such as refrigerants, pharmaceutical intermediates, and fluoropolymers. It is also used in a wide variety of processes in the refining, ceramic, steel, chemical, polymer, semiconductor and refrigerant manufacturing industry. Other uses include metals manufacturing, glass etching and polishing, production of gasoline, stainless steel pickling, semi-conductor preparation and various applications in the chemical and specialty metal production industries. Keywords: refrigerant production |
Hydrogen Fluoride
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Hydrogen Iodide is used for its expectorant action in chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma.
Chemical Formula: HI Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Iodide is a colorless, nonflammable, and corrosive gas with a penetrating and suffocating odor. Hydrogen Iodide is highly toxic, and mostly attacks mucous membranes and eyes. It is used primarily in the manufacture of hydriodic acid and in the preparation of organic and inorganic iodide compounds. It is also used as a reducing agent in chemical synthesis, in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, and as a disinfectant. Keywords: hydriodic acid |
Hydrogen Iodide
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Peroxide is an environmental alternative to chlorine based bleaches.
Chemical Formula: H2O2 Other names: Hydrogen Peroxide Layman's explanation: Hydrogen peroxide is a viscous liquid that has strong oxidizing properties and is therefore a powerful bleaching agent that has found use as a disinfectant and (in strong concentrations) as an oxidizer or monopropellant in rockets. It is commonly used (in very low concentrations, such as 5%) to bleach human hair. It burns the skin if it comes into contact in sufficient concentration. In lower concentrations, it is used medically for cleaning wounds and removing dead tissue. H2O2 is an environmental alternative to chlorine based bleaches and used to bleach textiles and paper products, and to manufacture or process foods, minerals, petrochemicals, and consumer products (detergents). Keywords: bleach, disinfectant, propellant |
Hydrogen Peroxide
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Hydrogen Sulfide is a colorless gas with a strong odor of rotten eggs and sweetish taste.
Chemical Formula: H2S Other names: Hydrogen Sulfide Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Sulfide occurs naturally in crude petroleum, natural gas, volcanic gases, and hot springs. It can also result from bacterial breakdown of organic matter and it is responsible for the smell of rotten eggs. It is also produced by human and animal wastes. Although hydrogen sulfide is a toxic pollutant gas generally occurring in wastewater, it has been used to precipitate metals in wastewater treatment reactors. It has been proposed for stabilization of metals in soils and for formation of metal sulfide "quantum" particles for microelectronics applications. Keywords: precipitant for heavy metals, decay product |
Hydrogen Sulfide
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Hydronium forms in the presence of hydrogen ions and water.
Chemical Formula: H3O+ Layman's explanation: Hydronium is composed of protons of acids that are dissolved in water. It is one of two integral molecules used to measure basicity and acidity of a solution. Acidic solutions are capable of healing insect bites, athlete's foot, sun burn, cuts, and lice. Acidic solutions can also used be used in the prevention of oral problems such as halitosis, plaque, sore throats, and strep throat. Keywords: acidic |
Hydronium
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The hydroxyl radical is a simple compound that when combined with metals usually forms bases like NaOH.
Chemical Formula: OH- Layman's explanation: In 1923, Johannes Bronsted and Thomas Lowry proposed that a Bronsted-Lowry base is any substance that can accept a proton. They found that hydroxide anion acts as a proton acceptor. When high concentrations of hydroxide are present in solution, the solution is said to be basic, having a pH above 7. It falls into the Bronstead-Lowry definition of a base because it acts as a proton acceptor. Hydroxide, when combined with other elements, serves many purposes. Aluminum hydroxide is a safe antacid used to treat indigestion, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and efflux oesophagitis. Keywords: antacid, basic |
Hydroxide ion
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Hypochlorite is produced when chlorine is added to water.
Chemical Formula: OCl- |
hypochlorite
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Sodium hyposulfite is used in laboratories for deoxygenation of samples.
Chemical Formula: SO22- |
hyposulfite
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Iron is the second most abundant metal in earth’s crust.
Chemical Formula: Fe Other names: Iron Layman's explanation: Since antiquity, Iron has been known for its malleability and abundance. Iron is a soft grey metal that is very ductile and easy to work; it can be rolled, hammered, bent, and tempered. Iron makes up 5% of the earth's crust in the form of ores such as hematite, limonite, magnetite, and taconite. This makes it the second most abundant metal, following aluminum. Most iron is used to manufacture carbon steel: iron with about 1.5% carbon and traces of other elements, but it is also used for many other alloys and steels of various types. Iron melts at 1808 degrees Kelvin and boils at 3023 degrees Kelvin. Insufficient iron in the bloodstream causes anemia, a medical condition causing unusual tiredness and other symptoms resulting from underdeveloped or few red blood cells. Keywords: anemia, steel, Mineral |
Iron
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Methane is a non-toxic, colorless, odorless gas that comprises 94.6% of natural gas.
Chemical Formula: CH4 Other names: Methane Layman's explanation: Methane is the simplest hydrocarbon, but certainly not the least important. It is an important fuel source providing electricity, thermal energy and transportation fuel. Unfortunately, the second largest source of greenhouse emissions is methane, most of which is released from landfills. Keywords: natural gas, fuel, greenhouse effect, coal bed |
Methane
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Methanol is the simplest alcohol.
Chemical Formula: CH4O Layman's explanation: In England in 1661, Irish chemist Robert Boyle discovered methanol as a byproduct of the distillation of wood, hence the archaic names, spirit of wood and wood alcohol. Methanol is a clear, flammable, and toxic liquid that can cause blindness if repeatedly inhaled or ingested. Consumption (>2 Tbsp) can be fatal, but the body can metabolize small amounts. Methanol is prepared by the catalytic combination reaction of carbon monoxide and hydrogen gases under high pressures. It is used in fuel mixtures to stretch the life of gasoline, in addition to its use in windshield washer fluid (50% MeOH) and paint strippers. Also methanol is used as industrial solvent in manufacture of streptomycin, vitamins, hormones, polymers and plastics. Keywords: wood alcohol, toxic, fuel |
Methanol
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Nitrates are used as fertilizers.
Chemical Formula: NO3- |
Nitrate ion
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Nitric acid is a strong monobasic acid and an oxidizing agent, which is characterized by a colorless, yellow, or red liquid.
Chemical Formula: HNO3 Other names: Hydrogen nitrate Layman's explanation: Nitric acid was first discovered in 1648 by a German chemist, Johann Rudolf. However, in 1901 Wilhelm Ostwald developed the Ostwald Process, which became the principle way of producing nitric acid. During the Ostwald process, ammonia gas is successively oxidized to nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide by air or oxygen in the presence of a platinum gauze catalyst. Nitric acid has a characteristic choking odor that is acrid and suffocating. It is a caustic and corrosive liquid which will attack some forms of plastics, rubber and coatings. Nitric acid is not combustible, but it may give off poisionous oxides of nitrogen and acid fumes when heated in fire. Nitric acid is mainly used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, flares and rocket propellants. Nitric acids react with toluene in the presence of sulfuric acid to form trinitrotoluene (TNT). Keywords: oxidizing agent, monobasic, explosives,fertilizers |
Nitric acid (aq)
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Nitrogen Dioxide is formed when fuel burns at a high temperature.
Chemical Formula: NO2 Layman's explanation: Nitrogen dioxide is a brown gas that readily dimerizes at lower temperatures to form the colorless gas dinitrogen trioxide. It is a byproduct of combustion that pollutes air and its gives smog its characteristic brown color. When gasoline, diesel fuel, or coal is burned at high temperatures nitric oxide (NO) is formed. Nitric oxide reacts slowly with oxygen to form nitrogen dioxide, or it can react with many organic-oxygen containing radicals (e.g., alkoxy and peroxy radicals) found in the atmosphere (also products of combustion) to more rapidly form NO2. The photolysis of NO2 by sunlight is the only known source of ozone to the troposphere (the layer of atmosphere closest to the earth); ozone is one of the most toxic components of smog and adversely affects human, animal and plant health in densely populated polluted regions. Keywords: Air Pollution, Smog |
Nitrogen dioxide
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Nitrous oxide is widely used as a propellant in aerosol cans in place of the CFC’s, which damage the ozone layer.
Chemical Formula: N2O Layman's explanation: Nitrous Oxide is a colorless, nonflammable, bacteriostatic gas with slightly sweet odor that was first discovered in 1793 by the English scientist and clergyman Joseph Priestley. Originally, it was used as "laughing gas" for recreational enjoyment and public shows. But in the early of 1840s, Nitrous oxide found a more scientific use as an anesthetic in clinical dentistry and medicine. At room temperature, N2O is quite inert with most substances, including alkali metals, halogens, and even ozone. It is therefore widely used as a propellant in aerosol cans in place of the CFC's, which damage the ozone layer. N2O is occasionally injected into the air intake of the combustion chambers (also called "cylinders") of racing cars to provide more power to the engine giving the car an exceptional acceleration. Keywords: anesthetic, propellant |
Nitrous Oxide
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Potassium permanganate is a powerful oxidizing agent which is used frequently despite its toxicity.
Chemical Formula: MnO4- Layman's explanation: Potassium Permanganate, the potassium salt of permanganic acid (HmnO4), is a purple to bronze lustrous crystal. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and frequently employed in redox reactions. It is a toxic irritant, which is harmful when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed by the skin. Keywords: oxidizing agent, toxin |
permanganate
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Perchlorate is a chemical anion used in combination with many cations to form salts.
Chemical Formula: ClO4 Other names: Chlorotetraoxide Layman's explanation: Perchlorate commonly combines with Aluminum, Sodium, Potassium, or Magnesium to form their salts. Aluminum perchlorate is used as a solid propellant fuel in rockets, missiles, and fireworks. Other salts are used in fertilizers. Due to its ionic nature, perchlorate readily dissolves in water and is very difficult to dissociate. Studies have shown that perchlorate is toxic to the thyroid and can impair brain development when consumed through sources such as drinking water. Keywords: fertilizer, toxic |
Perchlorate
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Peroxide is a dangerous and corrosive oxidizer.
Chemical Formula: O22- Layman's explanation: Dr. I. N. Love reported the first medical use of peroxide in 1888 in the Journal of the American Medical Association. In it he described the many successful treatments of diseases with peroxide. It would be used following World War I to treat pneumonia. Peroxide is very toxic and can cause severe skin irritations. Contact with many organic compounds can lead to immediate fires or violent explosions. Peroxide is most commonly used for bleaching, deodorizing, and antiseptic purposes. It is a common lab reagent and is used in epoxidation, hydroxylation, and oxidation-reduction reactions. The human body produces peroxide in the immune system to fight off invading microorganisms and aid in metabolizing fats, vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates. Keywords: toxic, corrosive, oxidizer |
Peroxide ion
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Phosphoric acid is a triprotic acid used in biology and industry.
Chemical Formula: H3PO4 Other names: Phosphoric acid Layman's explanation: Phosphoric acid was first made in 1774 by K.W. Scheele and J.G. Gahn from bone ash. Phosphoric acid is made by treating calcium phosphate rock with sulfuric acid, followed by filtration. It is by this process that almost 10 tons of phosphoric acid are produced in the United States each year. The compound is primarily used to manufacture some pharmaceutical products, fertilizers and as a flavoring agent in coca-cola. The steel industry uses it to clean and rust-proof their steel. Phosphoric acid is also used in the process of soil stabilization, and as a catalyst in the production of propylene and butene polymers, ethylbenzene, and cumene. In recent years though the industry has moved away from using phosphoric acid as a ingredient in detergents because of the harmful effect that Phosphates have on lakes a process called lake eutrophication. Keywords: titration, polymerization, fertilizers, Nucleic acid |
Phosphoric acid
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Propane is used as a combined solvent and refrigerant for the refining of lubricants and other products.
Chemical Formula: C3H8 Layman's explanation: Propane, one of the simplest alkanes with three carbons and eight hydrogen atoms, is a colorless gas used in many home appliances e.g., grills. It is a hydrocarbon produced from crude oil and natural gas, which has been one of the successful alternative transportation fuels. The advantages of using propane as a fuel are lower maintenance costs, fewer spark plugs and oil changes, and less wear on such components as piston rings and bearings. Also, vehicle emissions from natural gas and propane are expected to be lower and less harmful to the environment than those of conventional gasoline. In the petroleum industry, propane is used as a combined solvent and refrigerant for the refining of lubricants and other products. Keywords: refrigerant, fuel, alkane |
propane
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Quartz is one of the most abundant and widely distributed minerals in the world.
Chemical Formula: SiO2 Other names: Silicon oxide Layman's explanation: Quartz has been known since ancient times. It was referred to as krystallos by the Greeks, but this later became the generic term for crystal. The name quartz is derived from the German quarz (c. 1530 A.D.). Although quartz occurs in almost every geological environment including the United States, the U.S. is 100% import reliant on industrial quartz. The major import sources for 1997-2000 were Brazil, Germany, and Madagascar. Many varieties of gemstones are quartz, including amethyst, smoky quartz, and rose quartz. One of the uses for electronic-grade quartz crystal is frequency control in radios, televisions, and other electronic communications. Quartz sandstone is used for building and quartz sand is used to make sandpaper. Keywords: Silica, sandstone |
Quartz
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Salicylic acid is used in the manufacture of acetylsalicylic acid, known as aspirin.
Chemical Formula: C7H6O3 Other names: o-hydroxybenzoic acid, salonil, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid Layman's explanation: Salicylic acid is a colorless to white crystalline powder with a sweetish acrid taste that occurs naturally in many microorganisms and plants in very small amounts. It is also made synthetically and used as preservative of food products in some countries and as an antiseptic in mouthwashes and toothpastes. This chemical is also used in the manufacture of methyl salicylates, acetylasalicylic acid (aspirin) and other salicylates. Salicylic acid is a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of dyestuff, salicylate esters and salts. It is prepared commercially by heating sodium phenolate (the sodium salt of phenol) with carbon dioxide under pressure to form sodium salicylate, which is treated with sulfuric acid to liberate salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is quite irritating to skin and mucosa and it destroys epithelial cells. Absorption of large amounts can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, acidosis and mental disturbances. Keywords: additive, aspirin, antiseptic |
Salicylic acid
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Silver is a very conductive, shiny metal known since prehistory.
Chemical Formula: Ag Layman's explanation: Since prehistory, man has known of silver, a metal that occurs as cubic or octahedral crystals when found in mineral form. It is a soft, lustrous, ductile, and white solid that melts at 1235 degrees Kelvin and boils at 2485 degrees Kelvin. This metal is the best conductor of heat and electricity known to man. Silver is used in jewelry, as it is an excellent light reflector that resists oxidation, but tarnishes due to the reaction of sulfur compounds in the air. Silver is used in the photographic and electronics industry, and has germicidal properties. Keywords: Electronics, Photography, jewelry, Mineral |
Silver
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Sodium chloride is commonly known as table salt.
Chemical Formula: NaCl Layman's explanation: Sodium chloride, or simply (table) salt, is found in the mineral Halite (rock salt) but also in seawater, sweat, etc. It is used in industry and in our everyday life, for seasoning and perserving food or for winter road maintenance. Seawater contains a lot of salt, on average of 2.6% NaCl, or 26 million metric tons per cubic kilometer. In rock salt the NaCl content typically ranges between 95% and 99% NaCl, and mechanically evaporated salt and solar salt normally exceed 99% NaCl. Keywords: salt |
Sodium chloride
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Sucrose is mainly used as sweetener in foods and soft drinks.
Chemical Formula: C12H22O11 Other names: Sugar Layman's explanation: Sucrose is the chemical name of table sugar. It is found in granulated, powdered and brown sugar and molasses, as well as, in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Sucrose is a disaccharide that can be made from the combination of two monosaccarides, glucose and fructose. For production use, sucrose is generally extracted from a sugar cane and then purified and crystallized. Sucrose is the most common sweetener in the modern world, however, including too much of it in a diet does have adverse health effects such obesity caused by the high calorie content. |
Sucrose
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Sulfate is the anion produced through the oxidation of elemental sulfur.
Chemical Formula: SO42- Layman's explanation: Sulfate is a naturally occurring substance that is found in minerals and rocks, and in soil it is one of the most predominant anions. This substance results from the oxidation of elemental sulfur, sulfides, or organic sulfur. While sulfate is one of the least toxic anions, it is monitored under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The anion is used in mining, pulping, metal and plating industries, water and sewage treatment, leather processing and in the manufacture of numerous chemicals, dyes, glass, soaps, textiles, fungicides, insecticides, astringents, and emetics. Various sulfate salts are used in foods, the estimated daily intake of sulfate from the consumption of food is approximately 453 milligrams (mg). Sulfate can have a cathartic effect on humans which results in the purgation of the alimentary canal, when 1000-2000 mg is ingested. Keywords: anion |
Sulfate ion
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Sulfur trioxide is formed when sulfur dioxide reacts with water in the air.
Chemical Formula: SO32- Layman's explanation: Most of the time sulfur compounds refer to sulfur dioxide (SO2) or sulfuric acid (H2SO4). SO3 is actually formed when SO2 combines with water. When SO3 then reacts with water, it produces H2SO4, this process is signified by the white fumes that are given off when the SO3 takes up water. Sulfur trioxide is found in three forms: a colorless liquid is its most common form, but it also exists as a crystal or gas. Sulfur trioxide has mostly the same hazards as sulfuric acid. The most common hazard is that it burns the skin. The most common use for SO3 in the environment is in the production of sulfuric acid and in explosives. Keywords: colorless liquid, hazardous |
Sulfite
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In ancient times, sulfur was called brimstone.
Chemical Formula: S8 Layman's explanation: The discoverer of sulfur remains anonymous because of lack of records. However, one can trace back to the discovery of R.W. Wood when he used ultra-violet rays to find a sulfur deposit near the crater of Aristarchus on the moon. Sulfur is also found in meteorites. In the United States, Sulfur can be found along the Gulf Coast in wells sunk along salt domes. It is brought to the surface using the Frasch Process in which heated water is forced into the wells and melts the surface. Sulfur may also be found in volcanos or hot springs. Other uses of Sulfur include making phosphatic fertilizers, matches, and medicine. The mineral is a good insulator and takes part in bleaching dried fruit. Sulfur is a minor constitute of body fluids, fats, and skeletal minerals. It can be said that Sulfur is essential to life. Keywords: meteorite, Brimstone, Sulfuric Acid, Mineral |
sulfur
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Sulfur Monoxide is the second most abundant gas observed in the atmosphere of Jupiter’s moon.
Chemical Formula: SO Other names: Sulfur monoxide Layman's explanation: This molecule was determined by observing microwave transitions. Little is known about its function in space. |
Sulfur Monoxide
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H2SO4 is a dense, colorless, oily, corrosive liquid.
Chemical Formula: H2SO4 Layman's explanation: H2SO4 was discovered by alchemists and made from heating a compound of iron sulfate. In 1740, sulfuric acid was produced for commercial sale. Sulfuric acid is a very strong acid which is used in car batteries. The acid disassociates in water to give two protons and sulfate. This acid can destroy flesh and cause blindness. It was discovered in the 19th century that adding sulfuric acid to soil produces phosphorus, which is beneficial to plants; hence, sulfuric acid is used as a fertilizer in the form of super phosphate and ammonium sulfate. Sulfuric acid is also used to refine petroleum and process metals, and is found in paints and car batteries. Keywords: fertilizer, paints, corrosive |
Sulfuric Acid
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Thionyl chloride is a corrosive liquid.
Chemical Formula: Cl2OS Other names: Thionyl chloride Layman's explanation: Thionyl chloride is a slightly yellowish liquid with an intense odor and low viscosity. It reacts with lithium to produce lithium chloride and is a good solvent for most organic compounds. Other uses of thionyl chloride include as an intermediate for the production of pharmaceutically active ingredients, as an electrolyte in lithium batteries, and in crop protection. Keywords: solvent, electrolyte |
Thionyl chloride
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Sodium acetate forms white crystals in powder form.
Chemical Formula: CH3COONa Layman's explanation: Sodium acetate is known for its ability to supercool. It freezes at 130 degrees, but can exist as a liquid at a much lower temperature. In order to melt solidified sodium acetate, however, every single crystal must liquify, otherwise the material will recrystallize. Sodium acetate has been used as a deicer for roads and runways. It is also used a component of buffer systems and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and heat pads. The compound is quite stable. It may act as an irritant and be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Keywords: supercoolant, deicer |
Sodium acetate
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Acetic acid is the compound responsible for the pungent characteristic odor and sour taste of vinegar.
Chemical Formula: C2H4O2 Other names: Ethanoic acid Layman's explanation: Acetic Acid commonly associated with vinegar; it is the most commercially important organic acid and is used to manufacture a wide range of chemical products, such as plastics and insecticides. Acetic acid is produced naturally by Aceto bacteria but, except for making vinegar, is usually made through synthetic processes. Ethanoic acid is used as herbicide, as a micro-biocide, as a fungicide and for pH adjustment. Keywords: herbicide, fungicide, plastic, vinegar |
Acetic acid
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Acetone is a colorless liquid that has a distinctive smell and taste.
Chemical Formula: CH3COCH3 Other names: dimethyl ketone or 2-propanone and beta-ketopropane Layman's explanation: Acetone is a major part of our body chemistry. Acetone occurs naturally in plants, trees, volcanic gases, forest fires, and as a product of the breakdown of body fat. As seen from previous experiences, acetone can cause health problems due to the role it plays in body functioning. Some properties of acetone are that it easily evaporates, is flammable, and can dissolve in water. Acetone is used as a solvent and reagent in the synthesis of organic compounds. Keywords: flammable, natural, solvent |
Acetone
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Aluminum bromide is flammable and corrosive.
Chemical Formula: AlBr3 Other names: Aluminum bromide Layman's explanation: Aluminum bromide is hygroscopic and appears as white to yellow-red lumps. It is corrosive and causes severe burns. It should be stored in a cool, dry and well ventilated place. AlBr3 reacts violently with water and evolves HBr, and also reacts quickly with alcohols and acids. Keywords: corrosive, Flammable, hygroscopic |
Aluminum bromide
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Aluminum monoxide has been identified in the infrared spectrum and it is believed to exist in circumstellar matter.
Chemical Formula: AlO Other names: Aluminum Monoxide |
Aluminum Monoxide
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Ammonium is an important ion in the fertilizer industry.
Chemical Formula: NH4+ Layman's explanation: The first widespread production of ammonium compounds occurred during the 1890s when ammonium sulfate was produced as a by-product from coke oven gas. Ammonium ion is produced as a product of the reaction of water and ammonia. Often, ammonium salts are isomorphous. They have a similar solubility to potassium and rubidium salts, whose ions are similar in size to ammonium. The ion is most stable in the presence of a large compound with a single negative charge. Keywords: fertilizer, isomorphous |
Ammonium ion
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Arsenic is a brittle greyish crystalline solid.
Chemical Formula: As Layman's explanation: Since the early middle ages, arsenic was thought of as a cure-all medicine, but it is now well-known to be a poison, carcinogen, and mutagen and before organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides were developed for industrialized agriculture, arsenic-based pesticides were commonly used. Arsenic was discovered in 1250 CE by Albertus Magnus. Rhombohedra crystal formations of arsenic are rarely found in nature; it is usually a massive formation on cavern ceilings. Arsenic is a common byproduct produced as a trioxide when smelting ores of true metals. It is used in bronzing, pyrotechnics, and for hardening shot, bullets used in black powder rifles. Certain types of glass require arsenic to be manufactured, and in recent years its use in solid state electronics has increased. Keywords: poisonous, carcinogen, mutagen, Mineral |
Arsenic
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Barium chloride exists as a toxic, colorless crystal.
Chemical Formula: BaCl2 Layman's explanation: Barium Chloride was the byproduct of the discovery of radium by Madame Curie. When refining radium, the final separation resulted in barium chloride and radium chloride. Electrophoresis of barium chloride produces small-scale amounts of barium atom. This can be used for obtaining barium for commercial uses. Applications of barium chloride include stimulating the heart and other muscles for medicinal purposes, and also for softening water. Other uses of barium chloride include the manufacturing of barium salts, as pesticide, pigments, boiler detergent, in purifying sugar, as mordant in dyeing and printing textiles, and in the manufacture of caustic soda, polymers, and stabilizers. Keywords: toxic, pigments, pesticide |
Barium Chloride
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Benzene is an air-borne hydrocarbon that is produced by burning natural products.
Chemical Formula: C6H6 Layman's explanation: Benzene is a clear and colorless liquid that is aromatic. It is used to make polymers such as rubber and synthetic fabrics, such as nylon and polyester. It can be derived from natural products such as coal and petroleum. This chemical is a known carcinogen and has been linked to leukemia. Short-term exposure to high-levels of benzene can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and even death. Exposure to benzene vapors in the air comes from car exhaust, cigarette smoke, glues, cleaners, etc. Keywords: Carcinogen, Plastics, Explosives, Pesticides |
Benzene
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The biphosphate ion occurs naturally and is important for cell functions in the body.
Chemical Formula: H2PO4- |
Biphosphate ion
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Bisulfite is an ion used in the brewing industry and in the paper industry.
Chemical Formula: HSO3- Layman's explanation: Bisulfite is the name for any salt containing the ion -HSO3 or an ester RHSO3, where R is any organic group. The most common bisulfite is sodium bisulfite. This is a white solid, which decomposes readily upon heating, yielding sodium sulfate, sulfur dioxide, and sulfur. This bisulfite compound is made by saturating a solution of sodium carbonate with sulfur dioxide. Bisulfite has many common uses. This compound is applied in the brewing industry, where it is used to sterilize wine casks, to prevent fermentation yeast, and to prevent spoilage bacteria in the wine. Bisulfite is also used to prevent fruits from darkening. Another major use of bisulfite is in the paper industry, where it is combined with calcium, magnesium, and ammonium ions and used to make the paper. Keywords: paper industry, brewing industry |
Bisulphite ion
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Boron is solid at room temperature.
Chemical Formula: B Layman's explanation: Boron was founded in 1808 by Sir Humphry Davy and Gay-Lussac and Thenard. It occurs as orthoboric acid in volcanic spring waters and as borates in Boron and colematic. Some sources can also be found in the Mohave Desert. It is used when making glass to keep the glass from breaking under temperature stress. Also if combined with sodium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide it makes bleach. Keywords: bleach, glass |
boron
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Calcite is the most common form of calcium carbonate.
Chemical Formula: Ca(CO3) Other names: Calcium Carbonate Layman's explanation: Calcite is an essential mineral in limestone and marble which are used in the building, steel, chemical, and glass industries. It is found in abundance on the earth. Calcite was first produced in translucent ("Iceland Spar") form in the seventeenth century for optical uses. In 1928, William Nicol used it for Polaroid Sunglasses in an effort to deflect the sunlight. Today, calcite has a large number of uses: optical and crystallography research; as a component of animal feed, antacids, statues, and dough strengthener; in the production of paper and photography; and to make mortar, cement, concrete and asphalt. Keywords: limestone, marble, Iceland Spar, optical, Minera |
Calcite
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Calcium Hydride is a cold-trapped molecule that is investigated for applications in laser spectroscopy.
Chemical Formula: CaH Other names: Calcium Hydride Layman's explanation: This molecule was determined by observing microwave transitions. Little is known about its function in space. |
Calcium Hydride
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Calcium hydroxide can be found in plasmas, flames and in circumstellar shells.
Chemical Formula: CaOH Other names: calcium hydroxide Layman's explanation: This molecule was determined by observing microwave transitions. Little is known about its function in space. |
Calcium Hydroxide
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Calcium oxide, also known as burnt lime or caustic lime, is used in glass production.
Chemical Formula: CaO Other names: Calcium monoxide Layman's explanation: Calcium Oxide is a caustic white solid sparingly soluble in water; the commercial form is prepared by roasting calcium carbonate limestone in kilns until all the carbon dioxide is driven off. Calcium oxide is also known as burnt lime or caustic lime. This lime was used in glass production. Its ability to work with silicates is also used in modern metal production (steel, magnesium, aluminum, and other non-ferrous metals) industries to remove impurities as slag. It is also used in water and sewage treatment to reduce acidity; in agriculture to improve acid soils; and in pottery, concrete, paints and the food industry (pH adjuster for ice milk mix, dietary Supplements, dough conditioner, and yeast food). Keywords: liming, sewage treatment, glass production, metal production |
Calcium Monoxide
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Calcium sulfide has an unpleasant smell like rotten egg.
Chemical Formula: CaS Other names: Calcium Sulfide Layman's explanation: Calcium sulfide in pure form is white and shaped like cubic crystals, and is slightly soluble in water. This is used as a base for luminescent materials. Calcium sulfide is also known as hepar calcies; sulfurated lime. This substance is used in phosphors and as a direct fungicide on powdery mildews and insecticides. Keywords: fungicide, insecticide, hepar calcies |
Calcium Sulfide
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Carbon dioxide is one of the gases in our atmosphere, which is uniformly distributed over the earth's surface.
Chemical Formula: CO2 Other names: Carbonic Anhydride, carbon acid gas Layman's explanation: Carbon dioxide was first described in the 17th century by Jan Baptist van Helmont, a Belgium chemist. The chemical CO2 is released into the atmosphere when carbon-containing fossil fuels like oil, natural gas, and coal are burned in air. It is also produced by various microorganisms in fermentation and is breathed out by animals. Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, using both the carbon and the oxygen to construct carbohydrates. Every year the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere is increasing. CO2 build-up in the atmosphere is caused by deforestation, therefore reducing the number of trees available to absorb CO2. Excess CO2 in the environment causes Global Warming and the Greenhouse Effect. It is also toxic to humans since inhalation of large amounts of CO2 can cause suffocation. Some beverages, such as beer and sparkling wine contain carbon dioxide as a result of fermentation. Keywords: Greeenhouse Effect, fermentation, Global Warming |
Carbon Dioxide
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Carbonic acid is a product in the fermentation of liquors.
Chemical Formula: H2CO3 Other names: Carbonic acid Layman's explanation: The hypothetical acid formed with carbon dioxide and water; it is only in the H2CO3 form when in solution. This acid is found in everyday products, the most prominent of which include carbonated beverages. The conversion of carbonic acid into water and carbon dioxide in sodas is the reason the beverage looses the bubbling. Keywords: soda |
Carbonic acid
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Carbonates are widely used, dependent on the cation, as pharmaceuticals, detergent, and pesticides.
Chemical Formula: CO32- Layman's explanation: Carbonates were studied extensively by geologists. Common carbonate-containing geologic materials are barium calcium carbonate, lead carbonate, and strontium carbonate. Carbonate is the salt of carbonic acid. Many counter ions are possible, including calcium carbonate and barium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is a brittle white rock, used in many buildings. Lithium carbonate is used to treat manic phases for bipolar disorder/manic depression. Carbonic acid is found in carbonated beverages, giving them a tart flavor. Layman's explanation: Carbonate is dianionic trigonal species and is the dianionic form of carbonic acid. Keywords: soda, Limestone |
Carbonate ion
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Carbonic acid is a product in the fermentation of liquors.
Chemical Formula: H2CO3 Other names: Carbonic acid Layman's explanation: The hypothetical acid formed with carbon dioxide and water; it is only in the H2CO3 form when in solution. This acid is found in everyday products, the most prominent of which include carbonated beverages. The conversion of carbonic acid into water and carbon dioxide in sodas is the reason the beverage looses the bubbling. Keywords: soda |
Carbonic acid
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Chlorate is a very strong oxidizing agent.
Chemical Formula: ClO3- Layman's explanation: Industrial chlorates are solely produced by electrolysis of hot sodium chloride solutions. This chlorate electrolysis is performed without the separation of the anode and the cathode regions Electrolysis of chlorate is undesired due to the fact that it consumes large amounts of energy. Chlorate is a very strong oxidizing agent. It is spontaneously ignites into flames when it comes in contact with objects such as wood and paper. Concentrated chlorate is used to destroy organic materials when testing for inorganic constituents. Alkali chlorates are colorless, stable as solids at room temperature and soluble in water. Mixtures of solid chlorates and substances like phosphorus and sulfur are explosive. Chlorates are used in fireworks and are toxic in human and other mammals. Keywords: toxic, electrolysis |
Chlorate ion
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Salts of chromate are brightly colored yellow to red compounds.
Chemical Formula: CrO42- Other names: Chromium tetraoxide Layman's explanation: In 1820, chromate of iron was discovered by Dr. Samuel Hibbert Ware of Edinburgh, Scotland in the Shetland Isles. Chromate exists in equilibrium with dichromate (Cr2O72-), which is a strong oxidizing agent. The brightly colored salts of chromate are used in pigments in paints. Lead chromate is red in color while Barium chromate is yellow. It is also used to treat aluminum in order to protect against corrosion and to prepare the surface for paint and adhesives. Keywords: Pigments, oxidation |
Chromate
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Chromium is a naturally occurring element that has been determined to be a human carcinogen.
Chemical Formula: Cr Other names: Chromium Layman's explanation: Chromium was discovered in 1797 by Louis-Nicholas Vauquelin but, it was not recognized as a mineral until 1981. The word chromium is derived from chroma which means color in Greek. This mineral is blue-white in color, brittle, resistant to corrosion and has no taste or odor. It is found in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Turkey, Iran, Albania, Finland, the Democratic Republic of Madagascar, and in the Philippines. The two other common forms of the element chromium are chromium (III) and chromium (IV). Chromium (III) is an essential nutrient that occurs naturally in the environment and helps the body use sugar, protein, and fat. Chromium is used in its many forms to produce numerous goods such as chrome-steel or chrome-nickel-steel (stainless steel) alloys, chrome plating, dyes, pigments, and is used in leather tanning and wood preservation. It is also used as a tracer in various blood diseases and in the determination of blood volumes. The World Health Organization has determined and listed that chromium is a human carcinogen or cancer causing. Air exposure may lead to ulcerations of the skin and respiratory passages. If ingested chromium may cause severe irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, circulatory shock, renal damage, convulsions, liver damage, and in the most extreme cases, death. Keywords: mineral, element, carcinogen |
Chromium
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Chromium trioxide reacts with most organic material in a violent and often explosive fashion.
Chemical Formula: CrO3 Other names: Chromium trioxide Layman's explanation: Chromium trioxide is a crystalline solid with a dark red color. Chromium trioxide is used as a strong acid and oxidizing agent in laboratories. Chromium trioxide is one of the most powerful oxidizers known. It is also used to make chromates, oxidizing agents, catalysts; chromium plating intermediate; used to make ceramic glazes and colored glass; used in metal cleaning; used in inks, paints, and tanning; used in engraving and photography. Chromiunum trioxide have been classified as "select carcinogen" and long term exposure can cause ulceration of the repsiratory stystem and skin. Keywords: Strong acid, oxidizing agent |
Chromium trioxide
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Copper is a very common, distinctively colored element.
Chemical Formula: Cu Other names: Copper Layman's explanation: Man has known of copper since antiquity. Copper is known for its unique reddish hue, its good electrical and thermal conductivity, and widespread abundance. It is malleable and extremely ductile. Copper melts at 1357 degrees kelvin and boils at 2840 degrees kelvin. Copper crystals are commonly found in cubic and dodecahedral forms. Copper is widely used in wiring and electronics. Two important alloys of copper are brass and bronze. Also, all American coins are now made of copper alloys. Humans require trace amounts of copper; larger doses result in poisoning. Keywords: wire, electronics, Mineral |
Copper
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The central nervous system is the primary target organ for cyanide toxicity.
Chemical Formula: CN- Layman's explanation: Cyanide ion CN- is highly toxic to human body that contained in inorganic cyanide. Many foods and plants have cyanides, such as cassava roots and cherries pits. Cyanides are also one of the very few soluble composites of gold, so that they are used in gold mining and electroplating, etc. Small amount of cyanides from foods are converted to the harmless thiocyanate (SCN-). However, cyanides are harmful in a large amount to human body, which can lead to vomiting, convulsions, loss of consciousness or even death. Because Cyanide ion binds more strongly than oxygen to the Fe+3 in cytochrome a3, it interrupts the electron transport chain in the inner membrane of the mitochondrion. |
Cyanide ion
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Dichromate is an ion with a 2- charge used as an oxidizing agent.
Chemical Formula: Cr2O72- Layman's explanation: Dichromate is used in a number of chemical reactions. Its ionic properties allow it to form many salts that can be used in oxidation-reduction reactions. Since the dichromate ion is soluble in water and many of its salts are not, it is easily identified in mixtures and solutions, with the formation of a precipitate. Because of Chromium s many oxidized states, many compounds it forms are colorful! These can be seen and identified qualitatively in redox reactions. Chromium compounds and ions are made by isolating Chromium form chromite ore. Keywords: oxidizing agent, colorful |
Dichromate ion
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Dimethyl sulfide gives off the smell of decaying vegetables and at other times can smell like sweet corn.
Chemical Formula: C2H6S Other names: Methylthiomethane Layman's explanation: Dimethyl sulfide results from malt, and from the short or weak boil of wort, slow chilling, or bacterial infection during beer-brewing processes. Also, dimethyl sulfide is found in large amounts in the oceans when the phytoplankton bloom releases it. It is used as a solvent for a variety of organic and inorganic materials. It is employed as a pre-sulfiding agent for catalysts in the refinery and petrochemical manufacturing process, and is also used in steel mill furnaces to control dusting. Keywords: malt, solvent |
Dimethyl sulfide
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Dinitrogen tetroxide is an oxidizer and highly toxic and corrosive gas.
Chemical Formula: N2O4 Other names: dinitrogen tetraoxide Layman's explanation: Dinitrogen tetroxide (N2O4) is a diamagnetic colorless toxic gas that is formed when two nitrogen dioxide molecules (NO2) react with each other in a process called dimerization. This process occurs readily in highly concentrated mixtures of NO2 or when NO2 condenses on surfaces or at very low temperatures. Liquid N2O4 can further undergo a process called autoionization, where an electron is transferred from one part of the molecule to the other and the molecule breaks apart into nitrosonium (NO+) and nitrate (NO3-) ions. Dinitrogen tetroxide has been used as an ionic liquid and also a liquid oxidizer for rocket propulsion [e.g., it was used in Apollo-Saturn V space vehicles (Lunar, Command,and Service Modules)]. |
Dinitrogen tetroxide
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Ethanol is used throughout the world.
Chemical Formula: C2H6O Other names: Ethyl alcohol, Alcohol, Ethanol Layman's explanation: Ethanol is a clear, colorless liquid that has a very distinct alcohol smell. It was discovered/made as far back as 6000 B.C. in the production of beer and wine. The Chinese were the first to distill it from fermented rice liquor. It is fermented from glucose sugars of plant cell walls. Ethanol is the primary ingredient in alcoholic beverages and is a central nervous system depressant in humans. It is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reacts violently with oxidants. Henry Ford used ethanol to run the first engine for the Model T. Currently, there is a lot of research related to increasing use of ethanol as a fuel to help the environment and offset the demand of oil since it burns much cleaner than oil and is a renewable resource. Ethanol is commonly used as a disinfectant; it kills organisms by denaturing their proteins and dissolving their lipids: it is effective against most bacteria and fungi, and many viruses, but is ineffective against bacterial spores. This disinfectant property of ethanol is the reason that alcoholic beverages can be stored for a long time. Keywords: gastrointestinal, fuel, alcohol |
Ethanol
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Ferric chloride is a red-orange solid that has hygroscopic properties.
Chemical Formula: FeCl3 Layman's explanation: Ferric chloride is a corrosive chemical, thus, it is used to deodorize sewage and industrial waste by partially reducing to ferrous chloride. It is also employed as an engraving reagent on metal surfaces. Other applications include its use as a flocculating agent in water treatment. Ferric chloride is a hazardous chemical that irritates the skin and eyes and is toxic if ingested, however it can be used as a reagent in pharmaceutical preparations. Keywords: disinfectant, corrosive, industrial waste |
Ferric chloride
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Ferric oxide color changes with increasing particle size from light red to dark violet.
Chemical Formula: Fe2O3 Ferrous chloride Ferrous chloride is a pale greenish salt-like crystal or powder, which is soluble in water. Chemical Formula: FeCl2 Layman's explanation: It has been discovered that high levels of exposure to this chemical substance may lead to iron build-up in the body, which can cause nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. Due to its corrosiveness, it is used as a resource for treating sewage, mixing metals (metallurgy), and textile dyeing. Also it is used in pharmaceutical preparations to prevent oxidation and degradation of easily oxidizable active ingredients in the compounds. Also it is used in pharmaceutical preparations to prevent oxidation and degradation of easily oxidizable active ingredients in the compounds. Keywords: metallurgy, corrosive, textile dyeing Crystallographic |
Ferric oxide
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Gold is a soft and valuable metal.
Chemical Formula: Au Layman's explanation: Man has known of gold since antiquity. It is a relatively soft metal with a characteristic yellow color that forms octahedral or dodecahedral crystals. Gold melts at 1338 degrees kelvin and boils at 3080 degrees kelvin. Gold is the most ductile and malleable of any element. It is used heavily as a standard for monetary systems, as well as in jewelry. This metal is also used for printed circuits, bonding transistors and diodes to wires, infrared reflectors, and specialized medical treatments. Keywords: currency, monetary, jewelry, Mineral |
Gold
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