Nitroglycerin is an explosive substance that has been used in a variety of applications over the years, including as a medication for heart conditions. Here are some simple explanations to your questions:
- How does Nitroglycerin work? Nitroglycerin works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels, which helps to improve blood flow and reduce the workload on the heart. This is why it is used as a medication for angina and heart failure.
- Does Nitroglycerin need fire to ignite? No, Nitroglycerin is a very sensitive and unstable substance, and it can explode under a variety of conditions, including heat, shock, and friction. Therefore, it needs to be handled with extreme care.
- How is Nitroglycerin made? Nitroglycerin is made by combining glycerin with nitric and sulfuric acids. The reaction produces a highly unstable and explosive substance, which needs to be stabilized for safe use.
- Other random facts about Nitroglycerin:
- It was discovered in 1847 by an Italian chemist named Ascanio Sobrero.
- It is one of the most powerful explosives known to man.
- It was used extensively in construction and mining industries in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- It has also been used in warfare, including in World War I and World War II.
- It is still used as a medication for heart conditions today, although other drugs are also available.