TETRACHLOROMETHANE Meaning and
Definition
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Tetrachloromethane, also known as carbon tetrachloride, is a colorless, heavy, volatile liquid with the chemical formula CCl4. It is classified as a non-flammable chemical compound that belongs to the group of chlorinated hydrocarbons. Tetrachloromethane is highly stable and does not readily break down in the environment.
This compound has a distinct sweet odor and has historically been used as a solvent, cleaning agent, and dry-cleaning fluid due to its excellent ability to dissolve oils, fats, and other organic compounds. However, its widespread use has significantly declined due to its detrimental effects on human health and the environment.
Exposure to tetrachloromethane can have serious health implications. Inhalation or ingestion of this compound can lead to liver damage, kidney dysfunction, respiratory complications, and even neurological disorders. Long-term exposure has been associated with increased risks of cancer. Therefore, strict precautions and safety measures are crucial while handling tetrachloromethane.
In the environment, tetrachloromethane is considered a hazardous substance. It has a high persistence, meaning it can remain in the atmosphere for a long time before breaking down. When released into the air, it contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, which increases the risk of harmful ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface. Additionally, it can contaminate soil and water, posing threats to aquatic life.
In summary, tetrachloromethane is a chemical compound widely used in the past as a solvent, but its use has declined due to its harmful effects. It is highly toxic to humans and the environment, and proper handling and disposal methods are essential to prevent its negative impact.
Common Misspellings for TETRACHLOROMETHANE
- retrachloromethane
- fetrachloromethane
- getrachloromethane
- yetrachloromethane
- 6etrachloromethane
- 5etrachloromethane
- twtrachloromethane
- tstrachloromethane
- tdtrachloromethane
- trtrachloromethane
- t4trachloromethane
- t3trachloromethane
- terrachloromethane
- tefrachloromethane
- tegrachloromethane
- teyrachloromethane
- te6rachloromethane
- te5rachloromethane
- teteachloromethane
Etymology of TETRACHLOROMETHANE
The word "tetrachloromethane" is derived from the combination of several parts:
1. "Tetra-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "tettares", meaning "four". It is often used to indicate the presence of four atoms of an element or four substituents in a compound.
2. "Chloro-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "khlōros", meaning "greenish-yellow". It is used to indicate the presence of chlorine in a compound.
3. "Methane" is derived from the Greek word "methanē", which means "a gas found in swamps". It refers to the simplest hydrocarbon compound, composed of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms (CH4).
Similar spelling words for TETRACHLOROMETHANE
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