Dimethylamine

/ˌdaɪˈmɛθəlˌæmɪn/ noun

Definition

A colorless gas with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂NH that smells like fish and is used in making pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial chemicals.

Etymology

From dimethyl (two methyl groups) + amine (from ammonia, NH₃, with hydrogen replaced by organic groups). The name describes its structure: two methyl groups attached to nitrogen.

Kelly Says

Dimethylamine is the chemical culprit behind the smell of rotting fish—bacteria in decaying fish produce it, which is why your nose knows instantly when seafood has gone bad.

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