compound in nylon wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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Crossword puzzles, especially those from reputable sources like the Wall Street Journal, can be a delightful challenge. One clue that frequently pops up, often stumping even seasoned solvers, involves the key chemical compound found in nylon. Let's delve into this common crossword clue, exploring its various forms and providing some helpful strategies for future puzzles. We'll be referencing clues and answers sourced from CrosswordFiend (with proper attribution, of course), enriching the information with additional context and practical examples.

The Most Common Clue & Answer:

A very common clue, often seen in WSJ crosswords and similar publications, is simply "Compound in nylon". The answer, almost invariably, is AMIDE.

• Attribution: This answer is consistent across numerous sources, including several clues found on CrosswordFiend, confirming its reliability.

Why AMIDE?

Nylon is a polyamide – a polymer (a large molecule made of repeating smaller units) where the repeating units are linked by amide bonds. An amide bond, also known as a peptide bond in the context of proteins, is formed between a carboxyl group (-COOH) and an amine group (-NH2). This bond is the crucial structural element in the long chains that characterize nylon's strength and flexibility.

Visualizing the Amide Bond:

Imagine two simple molecules: one with a carboxylic acid group (like acetic acid) and another with an amine group (like methylamine). The amide bond forms when a molecule of water (H₂O) is eliminated during a reaction between these two groups, connecting the remaining carbon and nitrogen atoms:

  O         H
  ||         |
R-C-OH  +  H-N-R'   -->   R-C-N-R' + H₂O

Where R and R' represent other parts of the molecules.

Beyond "AMIDE": Trickier Clues

While "Compound in nylon" directly points to AMIDE, crossword constructors often employ more subtle clues. We might see clues like:

• "Nylon component": This is a more general clue, still leading to AMIDE.
• A clue referencing the type of bond: This could be more challenging and requires a deeper understanding of chemistry.

Strategies for Solving:

1. Understanding the context: The surrounding words in the crossword can offer valuable hints. Look for words associated with chemistry or polymers.
2. Leveraging letter patterns: If you have some letters already filled in, focus on words fitting that pattern.
3. Using online crossword solvers (with caution): Websites like CrosswordFiend can be helpful for checking your answers or getting hints, but avoid over-reliance.

Adding Value: Nylon's Significance

Nylon's discovery revolutionized numerous industries. Its strength, durability, and versatility made it ideal for a wide range of applications, from clothing and carpets to automotive parts and surgical sutures. Understanding the amide bond at the heart of nylon's structure gives a deeper appreciation for its remarkable properties.

In conclusion, while the answer "AMIDE" for the clue "Compound in nylon" is relatively straightforward, mastering this clue enhances your crossword solving skills and opens up a fascinating world of polymer chemistry. By combining knowledge from sources like CrosswordFiend with deeper contextual understanding, you'll be well-equipped to conquer even the trickiest WSJ crossword challenges. Remember always to properly attribute your sources!