mercaptan

Definitions

Any of a class of organic compounds of sulphur, ( R-SH ) where R represents an alkyl or other organic substituent. They tend to be foul-smelling. They are also termed thiols or thioalcohols.

Equivalents

Examples

“Though this might come⟳ as a surprise⟳, gas actually has no odor; gas companies are obligated to odorize it to make⟳ it safer for use⟳ in homes. Mercaptan, a harmless chemical, is added to create⟳ the distinct smell⟳ in both natural gas (methane) and liquid petroleum gas (propane, butane).”

CEFR level