Parathion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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parathion
[ˈpærəˌθaɪən ]
Definition
chemical compound
Parathion is a highly toxic organophosphate compound widely used as an insecticide and acaricide. It is primarily employed in agricultural applications to control pests and insects. Parathion can be absorbed through the skin, ingested, or inhaled, leading to serious health risks for humans and animals. Due to its toxicity, the use of parathion has been heavily regulated or banned in many countries. When applying parathion, safety measures must be strictly adhered to avoid potential poisoning.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Farmers apply parathion to control pests on crops.
- Parathion is banned in several countries due to its toxicity.
- The use of parathion poses significant health risks to agricultural workers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health and Safety
- Parathion is known to be highly toxic to humans and animals, prompting strict regulations for its use.
- Exposure can lead to serious health effects, including respiratory issues and neurological disorders.
Agriculture
- This pesticide was widely used in agriculture during its peak, helping to increase crop yields significantly.
- Due to its toxicity, many countries have discontinued its use in favor of safer alternatives.
Environmental Impact
- Parathion can remain in soil for long periods, affecting non-target species and the ecosystem.
- Runoff from treated fields can contaminate water sources, harming aquatic life and leading to bioaccumulation.
Current Regulations
- Several countries, including the United States, have banned or restricted its use due to health risks.
- Alternatives exist now that are more environmentally friendly, which is becoming a trend in sustainable agriculture.
Origin of 'parathion'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'parathion' comes from 'par-' meaning 'beside' and 'thion,' indicating its sulfur-containing structure.
- Developed in the 1940s, this substance was designed to improve agricultural efficiency by controlling unwanted insects.
The word 'parathion' derives from its chemical structure, which includes a para-substituent on the phenyl group and thiophosphate moiety. It was first synthesized in the 1940s and gained popularity as an effective pesticide in agricultural practices. The prefix 'para-' indicates the position of the substituent on the aromatic ring, while 'thion' refers to the presence of sulfur in its chemical composition. Over the years, extensive research has been conducted on its efficacy and safety, leading to a better understanding of its toxicological effects. As a result, many countries have imposed strict regulations or have completely banned its use to ensure environmental and human safety. The historical context of parathion reflects the ongoing balance between agricultural productivity and public health.