Definition

A type of chemical compound that includes a specific group of three nitrogen atoms (N3) bonded together.

Example

Sodium azide is commonly used in laboratories as a preservative and in airbags.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the compound called azide?

Yeah, I think it's used in some chemical reactions, right?

Exactly! It's pretty fascinating how azide can be both useful and dangerous.

For sure! I read that it can be really explosive under certain conditions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Azide is derived from the prefix "az-" (from the Arabic "al-zāʼid", meaning the one that increases) and the suffix "-ide" (used in chemistry to denote a binary compound). The term azide refers to a class of chemical compounds containing the azide ion, which is characterized by the presence of nitrogen in a specific arrangement that increases its reactivity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'az-' as relating to something that 'increases' and '-ide' as indicating a chemical compound. This helps you remember that azide refers to a reactive chemical compound involving nitrogen.

Visually Confused Words