Hydrocyanic acid is obtained when hydrogen cyanide is mixed with water. Hydrogen cyanide, usually known as HCN, is a compound of hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen. It is also known as prussic acid. This acid is colorless, volatile and very poisonous. Hydrocyanic acid also has a very pungent smell similar to the scent of bitter almonds. The boiling point of hydrocyanic acid is 25.6 degrees centigrade and the melting point is -13.4 degree centigrade.

This acid is used as a fumigant in agricultural products and in the synthesis of organic compounds. Hydrocyanic acid is also used in the manufacturing of dyes, in the preparation of acrylonitrile, and to make parasiticide. Hydrocyanic acid is extremely hazardous if exposed to heat, flame, or oxidizers as it can cause fire or explosion.

Hydrocyanic acid is highly toxic in nature. Any contact with the skin causes irritation and sores. Too much exposure to hydrocyanic acid can cause asphyxia, weakness, headache, confusion, nausea, and vomiting. It could also cause coma or death. Like any other cyanide, exposure to hydrocyanic acid affects the primary organs which are the nervous system, kidney, lungs, liver and the cardiovascular system.