Nitrated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚗️
nitrated
[ˈnaɪtreɪtɪd ]
Definition
chemical process
Nitrated refers to a compound that has undergone the process of nitration, which involves the introduction of a nitro group (NO2) into an organic molecule. This transformation is commonly achieved through the reaction of the compound with nitric acid, sometimes in conjunction with sulfuric acid. Nitrated compounds are significant in both industrial applications, such as the production of explosives, and in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals. The performance characteristics of nitrated materials often differ from their non-nitrated counterparts, making this process crucial for specific applications.
Synonyms
nitrifying, nitrifying agent, nitrogenated.
Examples of usage
- Nitrated cellulose is used in making explosives.
- Nitrated compounds can exhibit increased reactivity.
- The nitrated derivatives have distinct properties.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Agricultural Science
- Nitrated compounds are crucial in fertilizers, providing plants with extra nitrogen, which is essential for their growth and green color.
- Overuse of nitrated fertilizers can lead to environmental issues like water pollution, as excess nitrates can leach into water supplies.
- Different crops require varying amounts of nitrated substances, influencing agricultural practices worldwide.
Environmental Concerns
- Excessive nitration can contribute to algal blooms in water bodies, drastically reducing oxygen levels and harming aquatic life.
- Innovations in nitrated fertilizers are being developed to minimize runoff and maximize nutrient uptake by plants, promoting sustainability.
- Regulations are increasingly focusing on managing the use of nitrated products to balance agricultural productivity and environmental health.
Chemistry
- In organic chemistry, nitrated compounds can become explosive, leading to their use in explosives like TNT, highlighting their potential dangers.
- Nitration is a key reaction in producing many chemicals used in both industrial applications and everyday products, such as dyes and pharmaceuticals.
- The process involves careful control of temperature and reagents to yield desired nitrated compounds safely.
Cultural Impact
- The application of nitrated fertilizers has shaped agricultural revolutions, enhancing food production and security across the globe.
- Conversations about nitrates and their effects have led to awareness campaigns in communities about responsible farming practices.
- In literature and media, the balance of agriculture and nature, including the role of nitrates, has been explored to discuss human impacts on the environment.
Origin of 'nitrated'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nitrate' comes from the Latin 'nitrum' meaning 'soda' or 'niter', which was related to mineral deposits high in nitrogen.
- Originally, the term referred to natural nitre or saltpeter, which is essential for making fertilizers.
- The process of nitration involves adding a nitro group to another compound, significantly expanding its application in agriculture and industry.
The term 'nitrate' originates from the Latin word 'nitrum', which refers to a type of naturally occurring salt containing sodium carbonate, and 'nitratus', meaning 'to make nitrous'. The process of nitration first gained prominence in the 19th century when chemists began to understand the interactions between nitric acid and various organic compounds. This chemical transformation paved the way for the synthesis of vital organic materials. As the industrial revolution progressed, nitrated compounds became indispensable, especially in the manufacture of explosives during World War I and II. Today, the study of nitration remains a crucial area in organic chemistry, contributing to advancements in materials science and pharmacology.