Definition

A type of chemical compound that is a cyclic amide, used primarily in the production of nylon.

Example

Caprolactam is an important ingredient in the production of nylon-6.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of caprolactam?

Yeah, it's that chemical used to make nylon, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it comes from cyclohexanone.

Totally! I didn't know there was such a process behind it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Caprolactam is derived from 'capro-' (from Latin 'caper', meaning goat) and 'lactam' (from 'lactam', a chemical term referring to a cyclic amide). The term 'caprolactam' refers to a cyclic amide derived from caproic acid, which is named for its association with goat's milk due to the presence of caproic acid in goat's milk.

Memory Tip

Think of 'caper' which relates to goats, and 'lactam' which refers to a type of chemical structure. This helps you remember that caprolactam is a chemical compound associated with goat's milk.

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