Disilane

/daɪˈsɪleɪn/ noun

Definition

A chemical compound consisting of two silicon atoms bonded together with hydrogen atoms (Si₂H₆); a binary compound of silicon.

Etymology

From di- (prefix meaning two) and silane, a compound of silicon and hydrogen. This systematic chemical nomenclature emerged in the 20th century as chemistry standardized naming conventions.

Kelly Says

Disilane is one of the most unstable common chemicals known—it spontaneously combusts in air and was historically used as a rocket fuel, making it a spectacularly dangerous substance that chemists must handle with extreme care.

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