SOMAN Meaning and
Definition
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Soman is a highly toxic nerve agent that belongs to the class of chemical warfare agents known as organophosphates. It is classified as a nerve agent due to its ability to disrupt and interfere with the normal functioning of the nervous system. Soman was first synthesized in the 1940s as a potential chemical weapon, and its lethal properties were later discovered during extensive research.
Upon exposure to soman, whether through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, it rapidly penetrates the body and targets a crucial enzyme called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. By inhibiting the action of acetylcholinesterase, soman causes an accumulation of acetylcholine in the body, leading to an overstimulation of the nervous system.
The symptoms of soman poisoning can manifest within minutes to hours after exposure and include blurred vision, miosis (excessive constriction of the pupils), excessive sweating, involuntary muscle movements, difficulty breathing, convulsions, and eventually, respiratory failure and death if left untreated. The lethal dose of soman is relatively small, making it a highly dangerous chemical warfare agent.
Due to its extreme toxicity and potential for mass destruction, soman, along with other nerve agents, is banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1993. It is strictly regulated, and its possession, production, and use are strictly prohibited under international law.
Common Misspellings for SOMAN
Etymology of SOMAN
The word "soman" is a synthetic chemical compound belonging to a class of chemical warfare agents known as nerve agents. The etymology of the term "soman" can be traced back to its development and naming process.
The word "soman" was coined by the chemists Richard K. Harrison and Ranajit Ghosh at the British Ministry of Supply's Chemical Defence Experimental Establishment in the mid-1940s. It is derived from parts of the names of Harrison (SO) and Ghosh (MAN), the scientists involved in its synthesis.
"Soman" is an example of many nerve agents that were named using a similar convention, often combining parts of the names or initials of the scientists who discovered or developed them. Other nerve agents such as "sarin" and "tabun" follow the same pattern.
Similar spelling word for SOMAN
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