Barbituric acid is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of organic compounds known as pyrimidines. It is an important precursor to the synthesis of many barbiturate drugs that are used as sedatives, hypnotics, and anesthetics. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of barbituric acid.
Definitions
Barbituric acid is an organic compound that has the chemical formula C4H4N2O3. It is a white crystalline powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and ether. Barbituric acid is a weak acid that forms salts with bases.
Origin
Barbituric acid was first synthesized by the German chemist Adolf von Baeyer in 1864. He named the compound after the German word “Barbiturat” which means “to sleep” because of its sedative properties.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, barbituric acid is defined as “a white crystalline acid C4H4N2O3 that is a derivative of pyrimidine and is used in the synthesis of barbiturates.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines barbituric acid as “a white crystalline acid used in the manufacture of barbiturates.”
Associations
Barbituric acid is associated with the synthesis of barbiturate drugs that are used as sedatives, hypnotics, and anesthetics. It is also associated with the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
Synonyms
The synonyms of barbituric acid include malonylurea, 2,4,6-trioxohexahydropyrimidine, and 6-hydroxyuracil.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms of barbituric acid as it is a chemical compound and not a word with an opposite meaning.
The same root words
The same root words of barbituric acid include barbiturate, barbiturism, and barbituric.
Example Sentences
- The synthesis of barbiturate drugs requires the use of barbituric acid as a precursor.
- The German chemist Adolf von Baeyer discovered barbituric acid in 1864.
- Barbituric acid is associated with the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.