Hydrocyanic acid

Hydrocyanic acid (also known as prussic acid) is a colorless, extremely poisonous liquid that boils slightly above room temperature at 26 °C (78.8 °F). Hydrocyanic acid is a solution of hydrogen cyanide in water and has a faint almond-like odor.

Chemical Properties

Hydrocyanic acid is a weak acid and partially ionizes in solution. It is a linear molecule, with a triple bond between carbon and nitrogen. The cyanide ion, CN-, is isoelectronic with carbon monoxide and with molecular nitrogen.

Production

Hydrocyanic acid is produced on an industrial scale and is a highly valuable precursor to many chemical compounds, ranging from polymers to pharmaceuticals. It is mainly manufactured by the catalytic oxidation of methane or natural gas with ammonia in the presence of oxygen, where the catalyst is platinum.

Uses

Hydrocyanic acid is used in the production of acrylonitrile, which is used in the manufacture of acrylic fibers, resins, and rubber. It is also used in electroplating, metallurgy, and as a stabilizer in the photography industry.

Safety

Hydrocyanic acid is highly toxic. It is a powerful respiratory poison that acts by inhibiting cellular respiration, which can lead to death.

See Also

• Acrylonitrile
• Chemical compound
• Chemical industry
• Chemistry
• Industrial chemistry
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Photography
• Respiratory system

References

Hydrocyanic acid Resources
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