Converters & Calculators
Arsenic: Element Properties and Uses
Description
Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. It is a metalloid that has both metallic and non-metallic properties.
Chemical Properties Description
Arsenic is a metalloid, meaning it has properties of both metals and nonmetals. It is found in various oxidation states, the most common being -3, +3, and +5. Arsenic compounds can form arsenides, arsenates, and arsenites, which are utilized in various chemical reactions and applications. The element can react with metals to form alloys and can also form poisonous compounds when exposed to high concentrations in the environment. Arsenic is known for its toxicological properties, especially in its inorganic form, which is linked to severe health risks when ingested or inhaled.
Physical Properties Data Table
|
Property |
Value |
|
Density |
5.776 g/cm³ (at 20°C) |
|
817 °C (1090 K) |
|
|
Boiling Point |
613 °C (886 K) |
|
Color |
Gray metallic or yellow in powder form |
|
State |
Solid at room temperature |
For more information, please check Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM).
Common Uses
Arsenic is used in various applications including semiconductors, LED devices, and in the production of alloys. It has also been historically used in pesticides and herbicides. Despite its toxicity, arsenic compounds are used in medicine, particularly in cancer treatments like arsenic trioxide. Furthermore, arsenic is used in the preparation of certain glass types and as a preservative in some pressure-treated woods.
Preparation Methods
Arsenic is typically extracted from ores such as arsenopyrite, which is heated to release arsenic vapors that are then condensed into solid arsenic. In industry, arsenic is commonly prepared by roasting arsenic sulfide ores in the presence of oxygen to produce arsenic trioxide. It can also be prepared through the reduction of arsenic compounds with carbon or other reducing agents.
Related Industrial Products
Arsenic is integral in the production of various industrial products. These include arsenic alloys used in the electronics industry, as well as its application in the creation of pesticides, herbicides, and wood preservatives. Additionally, arsenic compounds are used in the production of certain types of glass, particularly those with high refractive indices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main uses of arsenic?
Arsenic is primarily used in the production of semiconductors, LED devices, alloys, and as a preservative in treated wood. It is also used in certain medical treatments and historically in pesticides.
Is arsenic toxic?
Yes, arsenic is highly toxic, especially in its inorganic form. Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to serious health conditions, including cancer and organ damage.
How is arsenic extracted?
Arsenic is extracted from ores like arsenopyrite by heating the ores to release arsenic vapors, which are then condensed into solid arsenic.
What are the physical properties of arsenic?
Arsenic has a density of 5.776 g/cm³, a melting point of 817 °C, and a boiling point of 613 °C. It is typically gray metallic in appearance but can appear yellow in powder form.
What industries use arsenic?
Arsenic is used in industries like electronics for semiconductors, in the production of certain alloys, pesticides, herbicides, and pressure-treated wood, as well as in glassmaking.
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