Sodium cyanide is a highly toxic compound used in various industries. It releases cyanide ions, which interfere with cellular respiration, causing severe health risks and even death.
| IUPAC Name | Sodium Cyanide |
| Molecular Formula | NaCN |
| CAS Number | 143-33-9 |
| Synonyms | Cyanogran, Cyanide of sodium, Cyanide salt, Sodium cyanide salt |
| InChI | InChI=1S/CN.Na/c1-2;/h1H;/q-1;+1 |
Sodium Cyanide Properties
Sodium Cyanide Formula
The formula of sodium cyanide is NaCN. It consists of a Na+ cation and CN- anion. This chemical compound is widely used in various industrial processes.
Sodium Cyanide Molar Mass
The molar mass of NaCN is calculated by adding the atomic masses of its constituent elements, sodium (Na) and carbon (C) plus nitrogen (N). The molar mass of NaCN is approximately 49.01 grams per mole.
Sodium Cyanide Boiling Point
NaCN has a boiling point of around 1496 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the compound undergoes a phase change from a liquid to a gas. It is essential to handle NaCN with caution due to its toxic nature.
Sodium Cyanide Melting Point
The melting point of NaCN is approximately 564 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the solid compound transforms into a liquid state. Care must be taken while dealing with NaCN as it poses serious health risks.
Sodium Cyanide Density g/mL
The density of NaCN is about 1.6 grams per milliliter. This density value indicates the mass of the substance per unit volume. NaCN’s high density contributes to its stability and facilitates its use in various applications.
Sodium Cyanide Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of NaCN is approximately 49.01 grams per mole. This value represents the sum of the atomic weights of its constituent elements. NaCN’s molecular weight is crucial in determining the amount of the compound required in chemical reactions.
Sodium Cyanide Structure
NaCN has a crystal structure composed of Na+ cations and CN- anions. The cyanide ion consists of a carbon atom bonded to a nitrogen atom. The structure of NaCN plays a significant role in its reactivity and chemical behavior.
Sodium Cyanide Solubility
NaCN is highly soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 46 grams per 100 milliliters at room temperature. This high solubility allows for efficient dissolution and utilization of NaCN in various processes.
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.6 g/mL |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 49.01 g/mol |
| Density | 1.6 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 564 °C |
| Boiling Point | 1496 °C |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ammonia, methanol, ethanol |
| Vapour Pressure | Not available |
| Vapour Density | Not available |
| pKa | Not available |
| pH | Alkaline |
Sodium Cyanide Safety and Hazards
NaCN poses significant safety risks and hazards due to its toxic nature. Exposure to this compound can lead to severe health consequences. It interferes with cellular respiration, hindering the supply of oxygen to vital organs, which can result in respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, and even death. Inhalation or ingestion of NaCN can cause rapid and life-threatening symptoms. Handling NaCN requires extreme caution, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety protocols. It is crucial to store, transport, and dispose of NaCN properly to prevent accidental release or contamination. Regular training and awareness are essential to minimize the risks associated with NaCN.
| Hazard Symbols | Skull and crossbones |
| Safety Description | Highly toxic |
| UN IDs | UN 1689 |
| HS Code | 2837.11.00 |
| Hazard Class | 6.1 |
| Packing Group | I |
| Toxicity | Lethal to humans. It releases hydrogen cyanide gas, a highly toxic chemical asphyxiant that interferes with the body’s ability to use oxygen. |
Sodium Cyanide Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing NaCN, each involving the reaction of appropriate reagents. One common method is the Castner process. In this process, the molten mixture of sodium carbonate, carbon, and nitrogen gas undergoes an electric current, generating NaCN. Collect the solidified NaCN afterward.
In another method, sodium hydroxide reacts with HCN gas. Combine water with sodium hydroxide to create a solution and expose the solution to HCN gas. Consequently, NaCN and water form byproducts.
Furthermore, the synthesis of NaCN involves the reaction between Na metal and hydrogen cyanide gas. Introduce the gas to the sodium metal, causing a vigorous reaction that produces NaCN and hydrogen gas.
It is important to note that the synthesis of NaCN should only be carried out by trained professionals in well-equipped facilities. The process requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to the highly toxic nature of the compound.
Sodium Cyanide Uses
NaCN has various applications across different industries due to its unique properties. Here are some common uses:
- Gold Mining: Gold mining extensively uses NaCN to extract precious metal from ores. It forms a complex with gold, facilitating the separation and purification of the metal.
- Metal Plating: Electroplating processes utilize NaCN to deposit a layer of metal onto surfaces. It enables the formation of a protective and decorative coating, enhancing durability and appearance.
- Chemical Synthesis: NaCN serves as a precursor for synthesizing various organic compounds in the production of pharmaceuticals, plastics, dyes, and other chemicals.
- Pest Control: NaCN acts as a fumigant for pest control in certain agricultural settings. It eliminates rodents and pests that can cause damage to crops and stored products.
- Case Hardening: NaCN contributes to case hardening, a process that enhances the surface hardness of steel objects. It forms a hard outer layer, improving resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Jewelry Manufacturing: Jewelry manufacturing utilizes NaCN for metal cleaning, polishing, and etching. It aids in achieving desired surface finishes and removing impurities.
- Laboratory Research: NaCN finds applications in various laboratory experiments and research, particularly in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, and metallurgy.
Questions:
Q: What is sodium cyanide used for?
A: NaCN is used in gold mining, metal plating, chemical synthesis, pest control, case hardening, jewelry manufacturing, and laboratory research.
Q: How to make sodium cyanide?
A: NaCN can be synthesized through methods such as the Castner process, reaction with sodium hydroxide and HCN gas, or reacting sodium metal with HCN gas.
Q: How many total atoms are there in 9.203 e-22 mol of sodium cyanide?
A: In 9.203 e-22 mol of NaCN, the total number of atoms can be calculated based on Avogadro’s number, which is approximately 6.022 x 10^23 atoms/mol.
Q: Is sodium cyanide soluble in water?
A: Yes, NaCN is highly soluble in water.
Q: Does sodium cyanide do Sn2?
A: NaCN can participate in SN2 (substitution nucleophilic bimolecular) reactions.
Q: Is sodium cyanide lethal?
A: Yes, NaCN is highly toxic and can be lethal if not handled properly.
Q: How is sodium cyanide used in mining?
A: NaCN is used in mining for gold extraction, where it forms a complex with gold, facilitating its separation from ores.
Q: How to quench sodium cyanide?
A: NaCN can be quenched by adding a suitable quenching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or sodium hypochlorite, to convert it into less toxic substances.
Q: What is the major product formed upon treatment of (R) 1-bromo-4-methylhexane with sodium cyanide?
A: The major product formed upon treatment of (R) 1-bromo-4-methylhexane with NaCN is (R) 4-methylhexanenitrile.
Q: Which of the following reacts the slowest with NaCN?
A: The reactivity with NaCN can vary, but typically primary alkyl halides react slower compared to secondary or tertiary alkyl halides.
Q: Does cyanide inhibit the Na-K pump?
A: Yes, CN inhibits the sodium-potassium pump, which is crucial for maintaining proper cellular function.