Acetonitrile

/ˌæsɪtəˈnaɪtrɪl/ noun

Definition

A colorless, volatile liquid organic compound used as a solvent in chemistry, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and industrial processes.

Etymology

From acetone combined with nitrile (a chemical group containing nitrogen and carbon), reflecting its chemical structure that combines acetone-like properties with a nitrile functional group.

Kelly Says

Acetonitrile is the chemist's Swiss Army knife—it dissolves almost everything, mixes with both water and oil, and doesn't react with most compounds, making it absolutely essential for labs and factories, though it's also surprisingly toxic if you accidentally swallow it!

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