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Hydrogen Cyanide - Reciprocal Net Common Molecule Log in
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Hydrogen Cyanide

Cyanide is a chemical asphyxiant; it stops the tissue from utilizing oxygen which makes it a potentially fatal poison.

Chemical Formula: CN
Layman's explanation: Hydrogen Cyanide does not exist in many organisms because it can be fatal, although there are a few exceptions: tiger beetles, millipedes and centipedes. When these species are attacked, they release the cyanide to deter and potentially kill the aggressor. These exceptional organisms obtain the cyanogenic compound from their food but rather than being poisoned, they store it in their cells. This unusual phenomenon is still being studied.
Keywords: millipedes, centipedes
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