Kaliumsyanidin

Kaliumsyanidin is a chemical compound. It is an inorganic salt. The chemical formula is KCN. It is also known as potassium cyanide. It is a highly toxic substance. Kaliumsyanidin is a colorless crystalline solid. It is soluble in water. In aqueous solution, it dissociates into potassium ions (K+) and cyanide ions (CN-). The cyanide ion is the source of its toxicity. Cyanide ions interfere with cellular respiration, preventing cells from using oxygen. Kaliumsyanidin has a characteristic bitter almond smell, though not all individuals can detect this odor. It is produced industrially through various methods, often involving the reaction of potassium hydroxide with hydrogen cyanide. Historically, and in some specific applications, kaliumsyanidin has been used in gold and silver mining for leaching precious metals. It is also employed in electroplating processes. Due to its extreme toxicity, handling and disposal of kaliumsyanidin are subject to strict regulations and require specialized safety precautions. Accidental exposure can be rapidly fatal.