Word: Parathion
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Parathion is a chemical substance that is colorless and odorless. It is a toxic oil used primarily as an insecticide, which means it is a substance used to kill insects that can harm crops and plants.
Usage Instructions: Parathion is typically used in agricultural settings to protect crops from pests. However, because it is very toxic, it must be handled with care and is often regulated by governments to ensure safety.
Example Sentence: Farmers used parathion to protect their apple trees from insects, but they wore special protective gear to avoid exposure to the chemical.
Advanced Usage: Parathion is classified as an organophosphate, which is a group of chemicals that inhibit certain enzymes in the nervous system of insects and can also be harmful to humans and animals. Due to its toxicity, many countries have restricted or banned the use of parathion in agriculture.
Word Variants: - Parathion methyl: A related compound that has similar uses and properties. - Parathionized: The process of applying parathion to crops or plants.
Different Meanings: Parathion primarily refers to the chemical compound used as an insecticide, and it does not have other common meanings in English.
Synonyms: - Insecticide - Pesticide (though "pesticide" can refer to a broader category of chemicals used to kill various pests, including weeds and fungi)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to parathion, as it is a technical term primarily used in agricultural and scientific contexts.
Important Note: Due to its high toxicity, parathion should only be used by trained professionals who understand how to handle hazardous chemicals safely.