Organophosphate

Definition

Organophosphates are a class of organic compounds containing phosphorus, characterized by their structure which includes a direct bond between a phosphorus atom and carbon atoms. They are widely recognized for their use in pesticides, nerve agents, and various industrial applications.

Related terms

Phosphodiester bond: A chemical bond important in the formation of DNA and RNA molecules, involving a linkage between two oxygen atoms and phosphorus.

Pesticide: A chemical substance used to kill pests, including insects, rodents, fungi, and unwanted plants (weeds), with many pesticides being organophosphates due to their effectiveness.

Nerve agent: A highly toxic chemical compound that inhibits the function of an enzyme essential for normal nerve impulse transmission; some organophosphates serve as potent nerve agents