Definition

A clear, colorless liquid that is used to make certain types of rubber and fibers, and is also important in chemical reactions to create other substances.

Example

Acrylonitrile is commonly used in the production of synthetic fibers.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of acrylonitrile?

No, I haven't. What is it used for?

It's a compound that's important in making certain types of rubber and fibers.

That sounds interesting! I had no idea chemistry had so many applications.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Acrylonitrile is formed from "acryl" (derived from the Latin "acrylicus", meaning sour or sharp) and "nitrile" (from "nitro-" meaning relating to nitrogen and "-ile" indicating a chemical compound). The word refers to a compound that contains both an acrylic group and a nitrile group, which is used in the production of plastics and synthetic fibers.

Memory Tip

Think of 'acryl' as something sharp or sour, combined with 'nitrile' which relates to nitrogen, to remember that acrylonitrile is a chemical compound involving these elements.

Visually Confused Words