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Arsenic trioxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
As2O3
CAS number
1327-53-3
IUPAC name
arsorite
State
State

At room temperature, arsenic trioxide exists in the solid state. It is usually found in a white crystalline powder form.

Melting point (Celsius)
315.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
588.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
465.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
738.15
General information
Molecular weight
197.84g/mol
Molar mass
197.8410g/mol
Density
3.7400g/cm3
Appearence

Arsenic trioxide appears as a white, crystalline powder, though it can also appear as glassy, amorphous lumps. It is tasteless and odorless, resembling granular sugar in its powdered form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Arsorite (As2O3)

Arsorite, or arsenic trioxide, presents unique characteristics when it comes to solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Arsorite is slightly soluble in water. Its solubility is influenced by factors such as temperature and pH.
  • Solvent Behavior: In a neutral or acidic environment, the solubility can increase as arsenic trioxide can form various arsenite and arsenate ions.
  • Solubility Limit: The typical solubility is about 3 g/L at room temperature; however, this value can increase significantly with higher temperatures.
  • Environmental Impact: Its limited solubility can affect its mobility in aquatic environments, influencing its bioavailability and toxicity.

As a rule of thumb, remember that the solubility of As2O3 may be described as pH-dependent, which means that the conditions surrounding the compound play a vital role in whether it will dissolve more readily or remain precipitated. Understanding these factors is vital in fields addressing arsenic contamination in water sources.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Arsenite

Arsenite, commonly referred to by its chemical name, is a compound made up of arsenic and oxygen, represented as As2O3. This compound is fascinating not only for its chemical properties but also for its historical and ecological significance. Here are some intriguing aspects of arsenite:

  • Historic Use: Arsenite has been used historically in various applications, including in the production of pigments and as a herbicide and pesticide. Its ability to interfere with biological systems made it a popular, albeit dangerous, choice in agriculture.
  • Health Implications: Known for its toxicity, arsenite is a significant environmental contaminant. Exposure to arsenic, especially in its trivalent form, can lead to serious health issues, including skin lesions, developmental effects, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
  • Artistic Applications: Interestingly, arsenite compounds have been used in artworks. The infamous pigment “Paris Green,” composed of copper(II) acetoarsenite, was once a favorite among painters for its vivid hue, though it posed grave health risks.
  • Stability and Reactivity: Arsenite exhibits stability under various conditions, making it a compound of interest in materials science. Its reactions with other substances can lead to compounds that have distinct properties useful in different fields.
  • Environmental Concerns: Arsenic contamination in groundwater sources is a pressing issue in several regions worldwide. It underscores the importance of understanding arsenite’s pathways and how to mitigate its effects on public health.

In summary, arsenite is a complex compound that intertwines elements of chemistry, history, health, and environmental science. Its multifaceted nature provides a rich area of study for scientists and chemists alike, highlighting the importance of careful consideration when dealing with toxic compounds.

Synonyms
arsorite
15502-74-6
Arsenite ion
Trisoxylatoarsine
arsenite(3-)
ARSENITE ANION
ORTHO-ARSENITE
N5509X556J
Arsenite ions
arsenite anions
UNII-N5509X556J
ortho-arsenite ion
AsO3(3-)
DTXSID0074007
CHEBI:22633
CHEBI:29866
OWTFKEBRIAXSMO-UHFFFAOYSA-N
[AsO3](3-)
NS00134109
C06697
Q26841209