Definition

A chemical group or radical that consists of one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom, often represented as -NO.

Example

Nitrosyl is important in various chemical reactions, especially in the formation of nitric oxide.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term nitrosyl?

No, I haven't! What does it mean?

It's actually a chemical radical that contains nitrogen and oxygen.

That sounds interesting! I should look it up.

Root Explanation

Nitrosyl is formed from "nitro-" (from Latin "nitrum", meaning saltpeter or nitrate) and "-syl" (from Greek "syllepsis", meaning to take together). The word refers to a compound containing nitrogen and oxygen, specifically relating to the nitrosyl group in chemistry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nitro-' as relating to nitrogen and 'syl' as taking together, which helps you remember that nitrosyl refers to a compound that includes nitrogen.

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