Definition

A type of chemical compound that is used in making other chemicals and can stop the growth of some germs and fungi.

Example

Benzimidazole is often used in the treatment of parasitic infections.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of benzimidazole?

I think I’ve come across it in my chemistry class.

Yeah, it’s interesting because it can inhibit the growth of certain microorganisms.

That sounds really useful, especially in medicine!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Benzimidazole → It is formed from "benz-" (derived from "benzene", a type of aromatic hydrocarbon) and "imidazole" (from Greek "imidazōl", meaning a five-membered ring compound containing nitrogen). The word refers to a compound that includes both a benzene ring and an imidazole ring structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'benz-' as relating to a benzene ring and 'imidazole' as a specific nitrogen-containing compound, which together describe a chemical structure that combines these two elements.

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