ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ Methylmercury
Similar term(s): alkyl mercury, MeHg, methylmercury compounds.
Definition:
The term 'methylmercury' is commonly used as a generic term to describe (mono)
methylmercury compounds. In fact, methylmercury is not a compound in itself but
a cation, CH3Hg+, which forms one part of methylmercury
compounds; usually methylmercury salts.
Dimethylmercury is one methylmercury compound that is not a salt. The
methylmercury cation is normally associated with either a simple anion, like
chloride (Cl+), or a large molecule (e.g. a protein) with negative
and positive charges. The methylmercury cation is the most toxic form of
mercury, able to inhibit fetal brain development, which results in the
behavioural changes and reduced cognitive and motor ability.
Source & ©: GreenFacts
More:
Methylmercury is the most common form of organic mercury found in the
environment. Environmental methylmercury arises from the methylation of
inorganic mercury by microorganisms in soil and sediments, in air or under
water. Some methylmercury compounds are used as pesticides.
Related words: Biocide(s) - Dimethylmercury - Ethylmercury - Inorganic mercury compounds - Methyl group - Organic mercury compounds - Phenylmercury To read about this term in context: GreenFacts Digest on Mercury:
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