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Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is a colorless, volatile, and intensely poisonous liquid or gas, infamous for its rapid lethal effects and bitter almond-like odor, though not everyone can detect this scent. Historically known as prussic acid, it has played a dark role in chemical warfare and genocide. Today, its industrial importance stands in stark contrast to its toxic legacy. It is a critical precursor in the production of nylon, plastics, and synthetic fibers, and is used in electroplating, gold and silver mining, and pest fumigation.