Syanidi

Syanidi is a term used in several languages to refer to cyanide compounds, a family of chemical species containing the cyano group CN−. The term may refer, broadly, to inorganic cyanides such as sodium cyanide (NaCN) and potassium cyanide (KCN); and to organic cyanides, or nitriles, such as acetonitrile (CH3CN) and benzonitrile (C6H5CN). Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is a volatile, highly toxic molecule that forms cyanide salts in alkaline solutions.

Chemistry and properties: The cyanide ion CN− is a pseudohalide that forms coordination bonds with metal centers, giving complexes like ferrocyanide [Fe(CN)6]4− and ferricyanide [Fe(CN)6]3−. Metal cyanides include pigments and catalysts, and cyanide solutions are used in various industrial processes, notably gold ore leaching where soluble gold-cyanide complexes are formed.

Occurrence and sources: In nature, cyanides occur in trace amounts in some seeds and fruit pits; plants produce cyanogenic glycosides that release HCN when damaged. Some bacteria and fungi also synthesize cyanide-containing compounds. Cyanide can be released during industrial activities or the processing of certain ores and chemicals.

Uses: Industrially, cyanides are used in mining, electroplating, and the synthesis of nitriles and pharmaceuticals. They also appear in some pesticides and fumigants under regulated conditions.

Safety and regulation: Cyanide is highly toxic; exposure can disrupt cellular respiration and be fatal. Safety measures include proper containment, ventilation, and antidotes such as hydroxocobalamin; nitrites and thiosulfate regimens may be used in certain treatments. Environmental spills require rapid detoxification and containment. Etymology: the term cyanide derives from cyan- meaning blue, with the -ide suffix indicating a negatively charged ion.