Cyanide is a chemical compound that contains the cyano group (?CN), consisting of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. It is highly toxic and can exist in various forms, including hydrogen cyanide (a colorless gas) and potassium cyanide (a white crystalline salt). Cyanide inhibits cellular respiration by interfering with the body’s ability to use oxygen, making it extremely dangerous and potentially lethal to humans and animals when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
