Nitroglycerin

Nitroglycerin, unstable, oily compound (C₃H₅N₃O₉) that explodes when exposed to heat or shock. It is used to make dynamite, which is basically nitroglycerin mixed with an absorbing material to make it less easily exploded. Nitroglycerin also causes the dilation of blood vessels and is therefore used in the treatment of angina pectoris.

See also: Dynamite; Glycerol.