Urea Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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urea
[juหrษชษ ]
Definition
biochemistry compound
Urea is a nitrogen-containing compound that is produced in the liver as a result of protein metabolism. It is the primary component of urine and is excreted by the kidneys. Urea plays a crucial role in the body's ability to eliminate excess nitrogen, which is a byproduct of amino acid breakdown. It can be synthetically produced for use in fertilizers and in the chemical industry. Its chemical formula is CO(NHโ)โ.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The body converts excess ammonia into urea.
- Urea levels can indicate kidney function.
- Urea is often used in skin creams.
Translations
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Origin of 'urea'
The term 'urea' originates from the Latin word 'uria', which itself comes from the Greek 'oura', meaning 'urine'. This nomenclature reflects the compound's primary association with urine production, as it was first identified in urine samples. Urea was first discovered in 1773 by Dutch chemist Hermann Boerhaave, but it was not until 1828 that it was synthesized artificially by Friedrich Wรถhler. This marked a significant moment in organic chemistry as it challenged the vitalism theory which stated that organic compounds could only be produced by living organisms. The synthesis of urea from ammonium cyanate demonstrated that organic compounds could indeed be made from inorganic substances, paving the way for the field of synthetic organic chemistry. Urea continues to be a significant substance, not only in biological systems but also in various industrial applications, showcasing its versatility and importance.