nitroglycerin (C₃H₅(ONO₂)₃)

Also called glyceryl trinitrate, the nitrate ester of glycerol, made by its nitration. Since it causes vasodilation, it is used to relieve angina. Its major use, however, is as a very powerful high explosive, though its sensitivity to shock renders it unsafe unless used in the form of dynamite or blasting gelatin. It is a colorless, oily liquid. Molecular weight 227.1, melting point 13°C.