Sodium Cyanide

Definition

Sodium cyanide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaCN. It is a highly toxic substance that is primarily used in the mining and metallurgical industries, as well as in organic synthesis. Sodium cyanide is an important compound in the context of the occurrence, preparation, and properties of transition metals and their compounds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sodium cyanide is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and has a bitter almond-like odor.
2. It is primarily used in the mining industry for the extraction of gold and silver from ores through a process called cyanidation.
3. Sodium cyanide is also used in organic synthesis, electroplating, and the production of other chemicals.
4. The toxicity of sodium cyanide is due to the cyanide ion, which interferes with cellular respiration by inhibiting the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase.
5. Exposure to sodium cyanide can be fatal, and it is classified as a highly hazardous substance that requires strict safety protocols and handling procedures.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of sodium cyanide in the mining and metallurgical industries.
  • Sodium cyanide is a crucial compound in the mining and metallurgical industries, particularly for the extraction of gold and silver from ores. The process, known as cyanidation, involves dissolving the precious metals in a sodium cyanide solution, which allows for their separation and purification. This process is widely used in the mining industry due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in extracting valuable metals from low-grade ores.
• Describe the chemical properties of sodium cyanide that make it a useful compound in organic synthesis.
  • Sodium cyanide is a versatile compound in organic synthesis due to its ability to undergo various chemical reactions. The cyanide ion (CN-) can act as a nucleophile, allowing it to participate in substitution and addition reactions. Additionally, the cyanide group can be converted into other functional groups, such as carboxylic acids, amides, and nitriles, making sodium cyanide a valuable precursor for the synthesis of a wide range of organic compounds.
• Analyze the safety concerns and handling procedures associated with the use of sodium cyanide, given its highly toxic nature.
  • Sodium cyanide is classified as a highly hazardous substance due to its extreme toxicity. Exposure to sodium cyanide can be fatal, as the cyanide ion interferes with cellular respiration by inhibiting the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase. As a result, strict safety protocols and handling procedures are required when working with sodium cyanide. This includes the use of personal protective equipment, proper storage and containment, and the implementation of emergency response plans in case of accidental exposure or spills. Ensuring the safe handling and disposal of sodium cyanide is crucial to minimize the risks associated with this compound.

Related terms

Cyanide: Cyanide is a chemical compound containing the cyano group (C≡N) and is highly toxic to most living organisms.

Transition Metals: Transition metals are a group of elements in the periodic table that have partially filled d-orbitals and exhibit a wide range of oxidation states, leading to diverse chemical properties and applications.

Metallurgy: Metallurgy is the science and technology of extracting and refining metals from their ores, as well as developing and studying the properties of metals and their alloys.