Arsenic
AR-s'n-ik
Arsenic (As) is a grey metalloid that has the atomic number 33 in the periodic table. It is located in Group 15 of the periodic table. It has the symbol As.
Arsenic is a semi metal that is used in semiconductors and also in lead batteries for cars. Whilst Silicon is the most common semiconductor arsenic is also commonly used due to its ability to conduct a current. Arsenic also has a use in pesticides however it is a very toxic compound to biological organisms. Until recently it was thought to be dangerous to living organisms but a number of bacteria have recently been discovered that uses arsenic in their metabolism. Arsenic was isolated by Jabir Ibn Hayyan in 815 AD but was first prepared by Johann Schoder who wrote a paper on two ways to isolate arsenic crystals. In Victorian times arsenic was mixed with vinegar and chalk and eaten by women to improve their complexion however it was proved to be a poison. It is located in Group 15 and it has a melting point of 817°c and a boiling point of 613°c being a solid at room temperature.
FAQ's
Known to the ancients & Albertus Magnus
1250
Uses
Many of its compounds are deadly poison and used as weed killer and rat poison. Conducts electricity. Used in semiconductors. Some compounds, called arsenides, are used in the manufacture of paints, wallpapers, and ceramics.
Sources
Found in mispickel (arsenopyrite)
About the author
Nathan M
Nathan has a degree in BSc Biomedical Chemistry at Warwick University and a degree in PGCE Science at Wolverhampton University, UK. Nathan's subject matter ranges from general chemistry and organic chemistry. Nathan also created the curriculum on Breaking Atom in the course page.
Citation
As
Download the Periodic Table
