Arsenic (As)
by Yogi P - October 30, 2023
Arsenic (As): A Poisonous Element
Arsenic is a chemical element with atomic number 33 and represented by the symbol As. It has atomic mass 74.922 g/mol, a melting point of 817 °C and boiling point of 613 °C, and a density of 5.727 g/cm3. It has five valence electrons and is located in period 4 and group 13 in the periodic table.
Arsenic is a notoriously poisonous and dangerous element that has been utilized since ancient times to commit assassinations, and even today, is still a deadly toxin in agricultural and industrial applications.
History and Discovery of Arsenic (As)
Arsenic has been known and used since antiquity for it’s deadly potential. Records of arsenic-containing medicinal mixtures date back to 500 BC in India.
In the early 16‑ century, Paracelsus, a renowned Swiss physician, discovered that arsenic sulfide could treat overall health ailments and German chemist Johann Frederick Bottger successfully synthesized arsenic in 1775. It was discovered in its metallic form in 1817.
Properties of Arsenic (As)
- Atomic number : 33
- Symbol : As
- Atomic mass : 74.922 g/mol
- Melting point : 817 °C
- Boiling point : 613 °C
- Density : 5.727 g/cm3
- Valence electrons : 5
Uses of Arsenic (As)
Arsenic has been used for various industrial purposes, due to its low cost and numerous properties. Arsenic has been used as a wood preservative, in glass production, and in constructing firearms. It is also used in synthesizing polymers and in semiconductor devices. Arsenic can be used as an alloying element in some steels and some brass alloys. Arsenic compounds are used for removing mussels and other marine biofouling from boat hulls underwater. Specific Uses:
- Arsenic-impregnated wood products
- Toxic pesticide formulation
- Biological warfare agents
- Alloying element in some steels
- Synthesizing polymers and semiconductor materials
- Heat transfer fluids and making automobile radiators
- Making insulation material
- Producing several insecticides.
Safety Precautions
Arsenic is an element that can easily enter our systems, and can cause serious health issues. It is important to note that proper safety measures need to be taken when using arsenic. A respirator must be worn when handling or using arsenic; it is also important to wear gloves and safety glasses at all times.
It is imperative to never to ingest arsenic, and to always properly store and dispose of any form of arsenic.
Conclusion
Arsenic is a poisonous element with a long history of use in assassinations, medicine, alloy production, and more recently, as a wood preserver and mussel deterrent. It has several properties which designate it as a useful resource, although the safety precautions associated with its use should not be overlooked.
With knowledge of the properties, history, and safety measures of arsenic, it can be utilized safely in a variety of applications.
