CID, or Chemical Identifier, serves as a fundamental reference point within the vast landscape of scientific data management and chemical research. This unique numerical identifier is assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), a division of the American Chemical Society, to every distinct chemical substance described in the open scientific literature. Understanding the CID system is essential for professionals and researchers who navigate databases like PubMed, Scopus, and various regulatory documents, as it provides a universal language for identifying compounds.
What is a Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number?
The CAS Registry Number is a serially assigned, unique identifier that distinguishes one specific substance from another, regardless of its naming conventions or origin. Unlike chemical names which can vary based on language or synonym usage, the CID offers a consistent and unambiguous reference. This number is composed of up to nine digits, separated by hyphens into two or three parts, and acts as the definitive key in massive chemical databases.
Importance in Scientific Literature and Research
In the context of literature searches and data retrieval, the CID is invaluable. When a researcher inputs a CID into a database search engine, they are guaranteed to retrieve every piece of information associated with that exact chemical entity. This precision eliminates the confusion that often arises from common names or abbreviations, ensuring that literature reviews, safety data sheets, and experimental protocols reference the correct material.
Role in Data Integration and Compliance
For regulatory compliance and toxicological studies, the CID is a mandatory field in many reporting formats. Agencies require this number to track substances accurately across international borders. Furthermore, in the era of big data, the CID serves as the linchpin for integrating information from genomics, metabolomics, and environmental science, allowing for a holistic view of chemical interactions within biological systems.
Utilization in Digital Platforms
Modern digital platforms and search engines have adapted to recognize CIDs, enhancing the accuracy of web searches. Typing "CID 50-78-2" into a search engine will directly lead to pages related to aspirin, bypassing potential ambiguities that might occur with the search term "aspirin" alone. This functionality is particularly useful for verifying substances found in environmental samples or unknown mixtures.
Ultimately, the mastery of the CID system empowers scientists, librarians, and safety officers to manage information with greater efficiency. It transforms the way chemical knowledge is stored, shared, and accessed, providing a stable foundation for future innovation. By relying on this standardized numerical system, the global scientific community ensures clarity and consistency in an increasingly complex informational environment.
