What is the formula of laughing gas called?
The formula of laughing gas is N₂O.
Laughing gas, scientifically known as nitrous oxide, is a chemical compound with the formula N₂O. As stated in the reference, it is also commonly referred to as dinitrogen monoxide or simply nitrous. It belongs to the family of nitrogen oxides and is recognized as a colourless gas. It is often described as having a sweet smell and taste. When inhaled, it can induce a state of reduced pain sensitivity and mild euphoria, sometimes accompanied by laughter, hence its popular name.
Chemical Identity
The formula N₂O indicates that each molecule of laughing gas is composed of two nitrogen atoms (N) and one oxygen atom (O). The name "dinitrogen monoxide" follows standard chemical nomenclature, where "di-" indicates two nitrogen atoms and "mono-" indicates one oxygen atom.
Here's a quick look at its key chemical identifiers:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Nitrous Oxide, Dinitrogen Monoxide |
| Common Name(s) | Laughing Gas, Nitrous |
| Chemical Formula | N₂O |
| Chemical Class | Nitrogen Oxide |
Key Characteristics of N₂O
- Physical State: Gas at room temperature
- Color: Colourless
- Smell/Taste: Sweet
- Effects (when inhaled): Pain insensitivity, mild hysteria, laughter
While N₂O is famously known as "laughing gas" due to its effects, its chemical formula N₂O is consistent across its various names, including its more formal chemical name, dinitrogen monoxide.
