cryogén

Cryogén is a term that can refer to several related concepts within chemistry and physics, primarily concerning extremely low temperatures. It is often used in the context of cryogenics, the study and production of very low temperatures. Substances that remain liquid at extremely low temperatures are also referred to as cryogens. These typically include gases like nitrogen, oxygen, and helium, which are liquefied under specific conditions.

The liquefaction of gases requires reducing their temperature below their critical point and often involves applying significant pressure. These liquefied gases are then stored and transported in specialized insulated containers to maintain their low temperatures and prevent evaporation. Cryogens have a wide range of applications. They are essential in scientific research, particularly in areas like superconductivity, particle physics, and astronomy, where extremely low temperatures are needed to observe phenomena or operate sensitive equipment.

In medicine, cryogens are used in cryosurgery for the destruction of abnormal or diseased tissue, such as warts or tumors. They are also employed in cryopreservation, a process that involves cooling and storing cells, tissues, or organs at very low temperatures, often using liquid nitrogen, to preserve them for future use, like in fertility treatments or organ transplantation. The industrial sector utilizes cryogens in various processes, including the production of electronics, food freezing, and as inert atmospheres in manufacturing. The handling and use of cryogens require strict safety protocols due to their extreme cold and potential to displace oxygen, creating an asphyxiation hazard.