Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Analyzing the Photo-oxidation of 2-propanol at Indoor Air Level Concentrations Using Field Asymmetric Ion Mobility Spectrometry
Published on: June 14, 2018
Nitrous oxide use in first-year students at Auckland University
Jennifer Ng1, Gregory O'Grady, Tristan Pettit
1Department of Neurology, Auckland Hospital, 1001, Auckland, New Zealand.
Abstract:
In a recent Lancet Case report, a patient presented with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord after recreational use of nitrous oxide (N2O). There is very little information about use of this substance as a recreational drug. In a questionnaire-based study, we surveyed 1782 students in their first year at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. 1360 (76%) questionnaires were completed and consistent. 780 (57%) students were aware of recreational use of N2O, 158 (12%) used the substance recreationally, and 39 (3%) inhaled it at least monthly. Users were most likely to be white and to be men. Our results show a high frequency of recreational N2O use in first-year students at Auckland University. Although this study does not accurately reflect use of this substance in the wider community, the high prevalence suggests that presentations of subacute myelopathy in an otherwise fit young person should prompt an enquiry about use of N2O.
More Related Videos
08:33Functionalization and Dispersion of Carbon Nanomaterials Using an Environmentally Friendly Ultrasonicated Ozonolysis Process
Published on: May 30, 2017
08:31Anaerobic Protein Purification and Kinetic Analysis via Oxygen Electrode for Studying DesB Dioxygenase Activity and Inhibition
Published on: October 3, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Redox Reactions
Alkali Metals
Table 1: Properties of the alkali metals
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Osmium Tetraoxide
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Potassium Permanganate
Oxidation of Alkenes: Anti Dihydroxylation with Peroxy Acids
Oxidative Cleavage of Alkenes: Ozonolysis
Ozone is a symmetrical bent molecule stabilized by a resonance structure.