What is the chemical formula for cyanide?

The chemical formula for cyanide is represented as CN. This indicates that cyanide consists of a carbon atom (C) bonded to a nitrogen atom (N). The structure of cyanide reflects its potential for toxicity, as it can interfere with the ability of cells to use oxygen, ultimately leading to asphyxiation at the cellular level.

Understanding the significance of the cyanide formula highlights its usage in various chemical processes and industries, as well as the necessity for strict safety measures given its hazardous nature. The other options represent different compounds: C2H5 denotes ethyl, NH4 is the ammonium ion, and SO4 stands for the sulfate ion. Each of these choices pertains to different functional groups or ions entirely, thus reinforcing why CN is the correct choice specifically for cyanide.