Cyanidföreningar

Cyanidföreningar refer to chemical compounds containing the cyanide functional group, which has the formula C≡N. This group consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. The cyanide ion, CN⁻, is a linear anion. Cyanidföreningar can be inorganic or organic.

Inorganic cyanides are typically salts formed with alkali or alkaline earth metals, such as sodium cyanide (NaCN) and potassium cyanide (KCN). These compounds are often highly toxic. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), also known as hydrocyanic acid, is a volatile and extremely poisonous gas. It can be formed when inorganic cyanides react with acids.

Organic cyanides, also known as nitriles, contain the cyano group attached to an organic radical. Examples include acetonitrile (CH₃CN) and benzonitrile (C₆H₅CN). While some nitriles can be toxic, their toxicity varies greatly depending on the specific compound and its structure.

Cyanides have various industrial applications, including in electroplating, gold extraction (cyanidation), and the production of plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Due to their high toxicity, handling and disposal of cyanidföreningar require strict safety precautions. In biological systems, cyanide can act as a potent inhibitor of cellular respiration by binding to cytochrome c oxidase.