Carbamide Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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carbamide
[หkษหr.bษ.maษชd ]
Definition
chemical compound
Carbamide, more commonly known as urea, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH2)2. It is a colorless, odorless solid that is highly soluble in water and is used as a fertilizer, in the production of plastics, and in various pharmaceutical applications.
Synonyms
carbonyl diamide, urea.
Examples of usage
- Carbamide is often used in dermatological creams for its moisturizing properties.
- Farmers apply carbamide fertilizer to improve crop yield.
- The laboratory synthesized carbamide for research purposes.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Chemical Properties
- Carbamide, also known as urea, is the main nitrogenous waste product from the metabolism of proteins in many living organisms.
- It dissolves well in water and can help plants grow by providing essential nitrogen.
- At room temperature, carbamide is a white crystalline solid with a slightly sweet taste, but it's not safe to eat.
Historical Origins
- First discovered in 1773 by William Cruickshank, who isolated it from urine, showing humans' early understanding of bodily processes.
- In 1828, Friedrich Wรถhler synthesized it from ammonium cyanate, marking a significant milestone by demonstrating that organic compounds could be created from inorganic sources.
- Its industrial production was revolutionized in the early 20th century, making it a key component in agricultural fertilizers.
Applications
- Carbamide is extensively used in the agricultural sector as a nitrogen fertilizer, providing necessary nutrients to crops.
- In medicine, it is found in certain creams and ointments to treat skin conditions, due to its ability to hydrate and soften skin.
- It is also used in the production of plastics and resins, showcasing its versatility beyond just fertilizers.
Health and Environmental Impact
- While carbamide is beneficial for crops, excessive use can lead to environmental issues such as water pollution and eutrophication.
- In small amounts, it is generally safe for farm animals, but high concentrations can be toxic.
- The careful management of carbamide usage is vital to balance agricultural productivity with ecological health.
Cultural Reference
- The chemical structure of carbamide has been referenced in discussions about kidney function, highlighting its importance in health science.
- In popular science media, carbamide is often showcased as a prime example of human innovation in chemistry, portraying the blend of accidental discovery and deliberate research.
Origin of 'carbamide'
The term 'carbamide' comes from the combination of 'carb-' from carbon, and '-amide,' a suffix used in chemistry for compounds containing a carbonyl group attached to an amine group. The word was first introduced in the early 19th century as chemists began to isolate and understand urea, which had been known since ancient times, but not until the 1770s was it chemically identified by Hilaire Marin Rouelle. Urea was synthesized artificially by Friedrich Wรถhler in 1828, marking a significant development in organic chemistry. The synthetic production of urea led to its increased use in agriculture and various industrial applications, and its naming as 'carbamide' reflected its composition and chemical structure.