corrosive sublimate

WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

Noun corrosive sublimate has 1 sense

mercuric chloride, mercury chloride, bichloride of mercury, corrosive sublimate - a white poisonous soluble crystalline sublimate of mercury; used as a pesticide or antiseptic or wood preservative
--₁ is a kind of sublimate

Corrosive Sublimate

Definition:

Corrosive sublimate refers to a highly toxic chemical compound, also known as mercuric chloride (HgCl₂), which is commonly used in various industrial applications, laboratory settings, and as an antiseptic.

Possible Meanings and Usages:

1. Chemical Compound:

In the field of chemistry, corrosive sublimate, or mercuric chloride, is a white crystalline substance that dissolves easily in water. It is used as a reagent or catalyst in various chemical reactions.

Sample Sentence: The chemist added a pinch of corrosive sublimate to accelerate the reaction.

2. Antiseptic:

Corrosive sublimate is sometimes used as an antiseptic due to its ability to kill bacteria and microorganisms. It is a powerful disinfectant but should be handled with extreme care due to its high toxicity.

Sample Sentence: The surgeon cleaned the wound with a solution containing corrosive sublimate to prevent infection.

3. Conservation and Taxidermy:

In conservation and taxidermy, corrosive sublimate is used as a preservative for animal specimens. It helps prevent decay and protects the specimens from insect damage.

Sample Sentence: The museum curator treated the bird specimen with corrosive sublimate to ensure its long-term preservation.

4. Historical Use:

Corrosive sublimate was historically used as a poison for rodent control. Its toxicity made it effective in combating vermin infestations.

Sample Sentence: The farmer placed baits containing corrosive sublimate to eradicate the rat population in the barn.

Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web