Definition

A type of organic compound created by replacing hydrogen atoms in a paraffin hydrocarbon with nitro groups, which are made of nitrogen and oxygen.

Example

Nitroparaffins are used in various chemical reactions and as solvents in laboratories.

Conversation

I read about a compound called nitroparaffin in my chemistry class.

Oh really? What’s interesting about that?

It’s formed by replacing hydrogen in paraffins with a nitro group.

That sounds complex! I never knew chemistry could be so intricate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nitroparaffin is formed from "nitro-" (from Latin "nitrum", meaning saltpeter or nitrate) and "paraffin" (from Latin "paraffinum", meaning little affinity, referring to its low reactivity). The word describes a compound that contains both nitrate and paraffin characteristics, indicating a type of hydrocarbon with nitro groups.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nitro' as relating to nitrate, which is a type of salt, and 'paraffin' as a hydrocarbon with low reactivity. This helps you remember that nitroparaffin is a compound that combines these two elements.

Visually Confused Words