Syanidit

Syanidit (Finnish for cyanides) are a class of chemical compounds containing the cyano group CN−. They occur as inorganic salts such as sodium cyanide (NaCN) and potassium cyanide (KCN), as well as hydrogen cyanide (HCN) gas, and as coordination compounds such as ferrocyanide [Fe(CN)6]4− and ferricyanide [Fe(CN)6]3−. They share the CN− moiety but differ in reactivity and toxicity.

They are widely used in mining to extract gold by cyanidation; in electroplating, organic synthesis, and as precursors for various chemicals. Some cyanogenic glycosides occur in plants and can release HCN when damaged, providing natural defense mechanisms.

Cyanides are highly toxic; they inhibit cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, interrupting cellular respiration and oxygen utilization. Symptoms of exposure include headache, dizziness, confusion, shortness of breath, seizures; severe exposure can cause coma and death. Acute toxicity depends on dose, form, and route of exposure.

Handling requires strict controls; antidotes include hydroxocobalamin (vitamin B12a), which binds cyanide to form cyanocobalamin, and nitrite-thiosulfate regimens as emergency measures; supportive care is essential.

Spills can pose significant environmental hazards to water bodies and aquatic life. Cyanide compounds can degrade slowly, but certain bacteria and chemical oxidation can detoxify contaminated media. Many countries regulate production, transport, storage, and disposal of cyanide-containing materials, with standard safety guidelines in mining and chemical industries.