Chloroform Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งช
chloroform
[หklษหrษสfษหrm ]
Definition
chemical compound
Chloroform is a colorless, sweet-smelling organic compound that is classified as a halomethane. It is primarily used as a solvent for fats, oils, and other organic compounds, and has historical significance as an anesthetic in medical procedures. Chloroform can be produced naturally or synthetically. Due to its volatility and potential health risks, its use is now restricted in many applications.
Synonyms
chlorocarbon, trichloromethane.
Examples of usage
- The laboratory used chloroform to extract the essential oils from the plant.
- Chloroform was once commonly used as an anesthetic during surgery.
- The chemist carefully handled chloroform due to its toxic nature.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Use
- Chloroform was one of the first anesthetics used in surgery, allowing patients to undergo operations without pain during the mid-1800s.
- It became popular among surgeons for its ability to induce unconsciousness until safer alternatives were discovered.
- Its use declined with the advent of safer anesthetic agents due to the risks of heart problems and liver damage.
Legal and Safety Issues
- The chemical is regulated in many countries because it poses health risks, including toxicity and potential for misuse.
- Concerns have been raised about chloroform being used illicitly for drugging individuals, emphasizing the importance of awareness and caution.
- Safety guidelines now recommend using proper ventilation and protective equipment when handling chloroform in laboratories.
Pop Culture
- Chloroform has been portrayed in various films and TV shows as a substance used for abductions or during heists, though often dramatized and not realistic.
- Its chemistry has found mentions in literature, symbolizing danger and mystery in thrilling plots.
- Artists have sometimes used the chemical as a metaphor in their work, exploring themes of consciousness and control.
Environmental Impact
- Chloroform can be produced naturally from the breakdown of chlorine-containing compounds in the environment, highlighting its presence beyond human use.
- It is classified as a volatile organic compound, contributing to air pollution when released into the atmosphere.
- Efforts to minimize the environmental release of this chemical have led to stricter regulations and replacement with safer alternatives in industrial processes.
Origin of 'chloroform'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Greek and Latin, where 'chloro' means green and 'form' relates to shape, referring to its chemical structure.
- It was first synthesized in 1831 by a young chemist, demonstrating the early exploration of chemical compounds.
- Originally named 'chloric ether,' its name was changed based on its properties, highlighting its use in medicine.
The term 'chloroform' originates from the late 19th century, stemming from the prefix 'chloro-' meaning greenish or relating to chlorine, and the suffix '-form' which denotes a resemblance to a particular shape or appearance. It was first identified in 1831 by the French chemist Eugรจne Soubeiran. The chemical formula for chloroform is CHCl3, indicating it is composed of one carbon atom, one hydrogen atom, and three chlorine atoms. Initially, chloroform was used for its anesthetic properties during surgeries in the 19th century, being more effective than ether. However, as its toxicity and potential to cause serious health issues became known, its medical use declined sharply. Today, it is mainly utilized in laboratories for chemical reactions and as a solvent in various industrial processes.