Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a chemical compound with the formula N2O. It is an oxide of nitrogen. At room temperature, it is a colorless non-flammable gas, with a slightly sweet odor and taste. It is used in surgery and dentistry for its anesthetic and analgesic effects.
Pronunciation
Nitrous oxide is pronounced as /ˈnaɪtrəs ˈɒksaɪd/.
Etymology
The term "nitrous oxide" was first used in 1772 and is derived from the Greek words 'nitron' and 'genes' meaning 'nitre' and 'born' respectively. The 'oxide' part of the name comes from the Latin 'oxidum' which means 'to give acid'.
Related Terms
- Anesthesia: A state of controlled, temporary loss of sensation or awareness induced for medical purposes. Nitrous oxide is often used as an anesthetic.
- Analgesic: A class of drugs used to relieve pain. Nitrous oxide has analgesic properties.
- Oxide: A binary compound of oxygen with another element or group.
- Dentistry: The field of health care involved with the health of the teeth, gums, and mouth. Nitrous oxide is often used in dental procedures for its anesthetic effects.
Uses
Nitrous oxide has various applications in medicine and dentistry due to its anesthetic and analgesic effects. It is used in minor surgeries and dental procedures to induce a state of sedation and reduce pain. It is also used recreationally for its euphoric effects.
Side Effects
While generally safe for use in controlled medical and dental environments, nitrous oxide can have side effects if misused or used in excess. These can include nausea, vomiting, headache, and in severe cases, oxygen deprivation leading to loss of consciousness.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nitrous oxide
- Wikipedia's article - Nitrous oxide
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