Zyklon B
Zyklon B (pronounced: /ˈzaɪklɒn ˈbiː/) is a pesticide infamous for its use by Nazi Germany during the Holocaust to murder approximately a million people in gas chambers at extermination camps.
Etymology
The name Zyklon B originates from the German word Zyklon, which translates to cyclone, and the letter B designates the modified version of the original Zyklon pesticide, which was first developed by a German company in the early 20th century.
Chemical Composition
Zyklon B is a cyanide-based insecticide. The active ingredient is a cyanide-based compound known as prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide, or HCN). The product is typically sold in pellet form, which releases the poisonous gas once exposed to air.
Historical Use
During the Holocaust, Zyklon B was used in gas chambers at extermination camps such as Auschwitz and Majdanek. The victims were told they were being led to shower rooms, but were instead exposed to deadly Zyklon B gas.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Zyklon B
- Wikipedia's article - Zyklon B
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