Thiocyanate

Thiocyanate (also known as sulfocyanate) is a anion derived from the pseudohalogen compound hydrogen thiocyanate. It is a common component in pyrotechnics and is used in the production of certain herbicides and fungicides. Thiocyanate is also a byproduct of the metabolism of cysteine in the body.

Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]

Thiocyanate is composed of a sulfur atom, a carbon atom, and a nitrogen atom. The sulfur atom is bonded to the carbon atom, which is in turn bonded to the nitrogen atom. This linear structure is typical of pseudohalogen compounds.

Properties[edit | edit source]

Thiocyanate is a colorless, crystalline solid that is soluble in water. It has a melting point of 149°C and a boiling point of 335°C. It is a weak base, with a pKa of 1.3.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Thiocyanate is used in a variety of applications. It is a common component in pyrotechnics, where it is used to produce a red color. It is also used in the production of certain herbicides and fungicides. In the body, thiocyanate is a byproduct of the metabolism of cysteine.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to thiocyanate can have a variety of health effects. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Inhalation can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Long-term exposure can lead to thyroid problems, as thiocyanate can interfere with the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Thiocyanate Resources
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