What Is Cyanide?
Cyanide refers to a group of compounds containing the cyanide ligand, represented by the CN group, also known as the cyano group. Cyanide compounds commonly include salts with cyanide ions as anions, such as potassium cyanide and sodium cyanide, which are known for their harmful effects on the human body.
Potassium cyanide, a typical example, is classified as acutely toxic, skin corrosive/irritant, eye irritant, and a specific target organ/systemic toxin under the GHS classification.
Uses of Cyanide
Cyanide is used in various industries due to its high toxicity. It serves as a fumigant for rodent infestations, an insecticide, and a fruit disinfectant. In plating and metallurgy, cyanide’s ability to form complexes with metals makes it a valuable component. Additionally, potassium cyanide and sodium cyanide are widely used in organic synthesis, where the cyano group is a versatile functional group, capable of being converted to carboxylic acids, amides, amines, and aldehydes.
Common reactions involving cyanide include those with alkyl halides using potassium cyanide and the Zandmeyer reaction using copper cyanide.