What is arsenic used for. Inorganic arsenic is found in soil, bedrock, and water.
What is arsenic used for Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients. Arsenic has a long history of use as a homicidal agent, but in the past 100 years arsenic, has been used as a Its medicinal use to treat syphilis and amoebic dysentery ended with the introduction of penicillin and other antibiotics in the twentieth century. Its chemical symbol is As, and it was first clearly identified as a free substance in 1649 by German pharmacist Johann Schroeder. Symptoms of immediate arsenic poisoning include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Arsenic may be found in some traditional remedies from a number of Asian countries [Garvey et al. Arsenic is also a common n-type dopant in semiconductor electronic devices, and a component of the III–V compound semiconductor gallium arsenide. Organic arsenic compounds are formed when the element combines with carbon and hydrogen. Despite its toxic history, arsenic trioxide has found a place in modern medicine for treating certain types of cancer, and ongoing research aims to balance its benefits and risks for a Nov 19, 2021 · Arsenic poisoning is a condition that is caused by elevated levels of arsenic in the body. Fittingly, arsenic became known as both the “king of poisons” and, wryly, the “poison of kings. Dec 3, 2023 · Get arsenic facts. Arsenic is combined with other elements such as oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. What is arsenic? Arsenic is a natural element found in water, soil, and air. Treatment may include the use of a chelating agent or bowel irrigation. How can I be exposed to Jun 9, 2025 · Arsenic is best known as a poison, but the element has many other uses, including as medicine. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth’s crust. Explore the complex world of Arsenic, an element known for its toxicity but also valued in various industrial and medical applications. The compound most often used for both purposes was arsenic sulfide (As 2 3 ). Although infamous for its toxicity, arsenic is paradoxically a therapeutic agent that has been used since ancient times for the treatment of multiple diseases. Inorganic arsenic compounds are thought to be more toxic than organic arsenic compounds. The most important compounds are white arsenic, the sulfide, Paris green, calcium arsenate, and lead arsenate; the last three have been used as agricultural insecticides and poisons. Arsenic compounds are found in some pharmaceuticals, commercial, and industrial products. By incorporating real-world examples, we make understanding Arsenic Sep 21, 2025 · Once a notorious poison, the uses of arsenic have changed dramatically. Learn how we are exposed to arsenic and its link to cancer risk. Arsenic poisoning from drinking water and eating can lead to cancer and skin sores over time. When people come in contact with arsenic in the environment, it is often with compounds. Ideal for students, researchers, and those curious about this fascinating element. Nov 21, 2025 · Arsenic, a chemical element in the nitrogen group (Group 15 [Va] of the periodic table), existing in both gray and yellow crystalline forms. Arsenic is a critical mineral and used in numerous industrial products including gallium-arsenic semiconductors for use in cell phones, solar panels, telecommunications, aerospace research and light emitting diodes (LEDs). Eventually, the arsenic of choice emerged as so-called white arsenic or arsenic trioxide (As2O3); the fatal dose was known to be an amount equivalent in size to a pea. It is also used to treat APL in patients who have not responded to other medication regimens. Click for more facts and information on the characteristics of Arsenic. Arsenic poisoning can cause serious complications and even death if not treated immediately. Arsenic is a naturally occurring chemical element in the Earth’s crust that can be in different forms. Read on to learn more about symptoms, treatment & safe limits. Arsenic Fact Sheet In nature arsenic is usually found in sedimentary or igneous rock joined to or mixed with other elements, such as oxygen. What is arsenic? Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth's crust. Overview Arsenic compounds have been known since at least the days of Ancient Greece and Rome (thousands of years ago). It is mainly found in contaminated groundwater, food and tobacco, and can cause cancer, skin lesions and other diseases. Arsenic is used in small quantities in semi-conductor manufacturing. Some scientists think that arsenic may be an essential element in our diet in very, very low doses. These compounds occur either naturally or as a result of mining, ore smelting, and industrial use of arsenic. Arsenic is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in air, water, and soil and is known to cause cancer. Inorganic arsenic is no longer used in agriculture, but organic arsenic compounds are still used in pesticides. Over the years, studies have raised concerns about arsenic levels in various food products, especially rice and its derivatives. Arsenic is a substance that has been well known as Saviour of Syphilis or the ‘healer’ and the ‘poisoner’ throughout history. Arsenic combines with other elements to form organic and inorganic compounds. to about the end of the 16th Oct 6, 2024 · Arsenic is also used in the production of glass, particularly in the manufacture of semiconductors and other electronic components. It can be found in the environment in rocks and soil, water, air, plants and animals and in man-made products, such as pesticides, wood preservatives and products used in pigments, textiles and paper processing. Arsenic and its compounds are poisonous. Arsenic is a trace element that occurs in foods, but it can also be toxic and carcinogenic. Drinking contaminated water causes most cases. Arsenic is a potent carcinogen and poses a significant health concern worldwide. Arsenic production has greatly decreased in the United States, but imports of arsenic Oct 11, 2025 · Arsenic, a naturally occurring pesticide, has been discontinued due to its harmful effects on the environment. Arsenic has a long history of medical applications; before penicillin was developed an arsenic compound was used to treat syphilis and yaws. Arsenic (As) is an element, which means that it is a chemical that can’t be broken down into simpler chemicals (so it is not a compound or molecule that is made up of other elements). Organic arsenic compounds are found mainly in fish and Dec 16, 2024 · This clinician brief describes properties and sources of arsenic, routes of exposure, populations at risk, health effects, and clinical evaluation, management, and counseling of patients. Higher levels may occur in mining areas, at hazardous waste sites, near natural deposits of arsenic, or from pesticide application. When arsenic combines with other chemical elements, it creates compounds, or chemical mixtures. Jul 4, 2017 · Homeopathic arsenicum album is, a perfect example of the homeopathic principle “like cures like. Jan 4, 2018 · Arsenic poisoning is caused by the ingestion, absorption, or inhalation of dangerous amounts of arsenic, a natural semi-metallic chemical. The greatest concern to human health from arsenic is contaminated water used for drinking, food preparation, and irrigation of food crops. C. In the environment, arsenic can exist in different forms such as elemental arsenic, inorganic arsenic and organic arsenic compounds. Dec 7, 2022 · Key facts Arsenic is naturally present at high levels in the groundwater of several countries. Discover the truth about arsenic in pressure-treated wood. While it is often associated with toxicity, it has several applications in various fields. Exposure to higher-than-average levels of arsenic occurs mainly in workplaces, near or in hazardous waste sites, and areas with high levels naturally occurring in soil, rocks, and water. “Fowlers solution Jul 28, 2016 · Arsenic is often used as a doping agent for solid-state devices such as transistors. Long-term exposure can cause skin changes such as darkening and lesions. We all know that arsenic is a very potent poison, but there are some other uses of arsenic. Jan 31, 2025 · Testing for arsenic may be appropriate if your physician believes you have symptoms that could be caused by arsenic exposure and a potential route of exposure, such as arsenic-containing well water or occupational exposure to arsenic. What is Arsenic? Naturally occurring in the Earth’s crust and widely dispersed in the environment, arsenic is the 20th most abundant element. Where can arsenic be found and how is it used? Feb 8, 2022 · Arsenic, in its pure form, is a silver-gray, semi-metallic substance that tarnishes in air. Discover its surprising history and its critical, yet highly controlled, role in modern technology and medicine. The use of Arsenic is currently used for induction and consolidation chemotherapy for acute promyelocytic leukemia and other cancers [Miller et al. Arsenic can also be found due to contamination from human activity. Arsenic is one of the most common potentially toxic trace metals (actually it is a metalloid) in the New Zealand environment. Inorganic arsenic is naturally present at high levels in the groundwater of certain countries, including the United States. Oct 1, 2025 · Disease Information Overview Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth's crust. Once inside the body it bonds to atoms in the hair, so analysing hair samples can show whether someone has been exposed to arsenic. It is classified as Feb 27, 2024 · Arsenic has a well-deserved reputation as a poison; in ancient times it was known as the “Poison of Kings and the King of Poisons. Learn how this element is engineered for use in high-performance semiconductors, durable alloys, and cancer treatment. The direct application of arsenic in the form of pesticides, fungicides or wood preservatives has historically been a major source of arsenic in soils, as arsenic is strongly attracted to soil particles and sediments. Arsenic trioxide can cause a condition called differentiation syndrome, which affects blood cells and can be fatal if not treated. What is arsenic Arsenic is a highly poisonous naturally occurring chemical element found in air, water, food and soil; for most people, food is the major source of arsenic exposure. A urine test is the most reliable means to measure arsenic exposure that has happened within a few days. Arsenic poisoning (or arsenicosis) is a medical condition that occurs due to elevated levels of arsenic in the body. Alchemy was a kind of pre-science that existed from about 500 B. Inorganic arsenic compounds are mainly used to Uses of Arsenic in Everyday Life Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. Arsenic poisoning symptoms lead to multi-organ failure if not treated Part three of Actalent’s four-part historic substitutions series examines the uses, impacts and replacement of arsenic green. Previously, inorganic arsenic was used to treat wood as "pressure-treated" lumber Arsenic may be present in food from the environment where foods are grown, raised, or processed. This guide not only clarifies its definition and meaning but also offers practical usage tips. Natural occurring levels of arsenic in soil range from 1 to 40 milligram per kilogram (mg/kg). Learn about its chemical properties, uses, safety precautions, and its role in biological systems. Jan 18, 2019 · Arsenic is an element that exists naturally in the Earth’s crust. Agriculture Pesticides: Arsenic compounds, such as arsenic trioxide, have been used in some pesticides and herbicides. Feb 10, 2023 · Arsenic Poisoning Arsenic poisoning can occur when you take in high levels of arsenic. Here are a few uses of arsenic: Wood Preservation: Arsenic compounds, like chromated copper arsenate (CCA), have been used to treat wood to prevent rot and insect damage. to about the end of the 16th Before receiving arsenic trioxide injection, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to arsenic trioxide, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in arsenic trioxide injection. In the past, arsenic compounds were predominantly used as pesticides on orchards and cotton fields. Small amounts of arsenic are found in some rock, soil, water, and air. [1] Long-term exposure can result in thickening of the skin, darker skin, abdominal pain, diarrhea, heart disease Arsenic trioxide is still used in some ant bait stations, which have been a source for childhood exposure via ingestion in recent years. The compound arsenic trioxide is a key ingredient in the production of gallium arsenide, which is used in high-performance electronic devices. Organic arsenic in naturally found in fish, seafood, and aquatic plants. ” It is derived from arsenic trioxide. Jul 3, 2019 · Get periodic table facts on the chemical and physical properties of the element arsenic, which is used as a doping agent in solid-state devices. Arsenic is used to make metals, glass, electronics, and wood preservatives. In small doses it is toxic and a suspected carcinogen. Sep 19, 2012 · A new study found arsenic in 200 samples of both conventional and organic rice and rice products. Arsenic in animals and plants combines with carbon and hydrogen to form organic arsenic compounds. Arsenic spreads through the environment naturally through soil erosion The metalloid arsenic is a natural environmental contaminant to which humans are routinely exposed in food, water, air, and soil. They were used by physicians and poisoners. Mar 31, 2025 · Arsenic trioxide side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Contaminated water used for drinking, food preparation and irrigation of food crops poses the greatest threat to public health from arsenic. The primary use of arsenic is in alloys of lead (for example, in car batteries and ammunition). As a poison, arsenic trioxide (As 2 O 3) looks like sugar, is tasteless, and only a fraction of a gram can kill an adult. Discover its medical uses, history, and pharmacology. 1 Another arsenic compound, arsine gas, is not a pesticide but is released as a byproduct in pesticide manufacturing and metal refining operations and is the most toxic of all forms of arsenic. From 1860 through 1910 arsenic was heavily used in embalming fluids. Historically, arsenic-based herbicides Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that is widely distributed in the earth's crust. This article delves into the complexities of arsenic in food, outlining its sources, risks, regulatory measures, and ways to mitigate exposure. It is found in several foods including seafood, poultry, grains (especially rice), bread, cereal products, mushrooms, and dairy products. It may also be used to treat other kinds of cancer, as determined by your doctor. Arsenic and compounds are used in wood preservatives and pesticides Arsenic is an element and a naturally occurring mineral found widely in the environment. It is also a deadly toxin that is difficult to detect. Arsenic can get into air, water, and the ground from wind Aug 27, 2024 · Following Walmart apple juice recalls, experts explain what arsenic is, how it gets into groceries and what to do if you suspect poisoning. The use of most arsenic-based drugs was abandoned with the dis … Arsenic is an element that occurs naturally in rocks & soil, water, air, and in plants and animals. Organic Jul 23, 2025 · Monosodium methanearsonate (MSMA) is an organic arsenical herbicide used to control grasses and broadleaf weeds. Inorganic arsenic compounds are found in soils, sediments, and groundwater. In the environment, arsenic is combined with oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. Inorganic arsenic is more harmful than the organic form of arsenic. It is now used in the production of wood preservatives, glassware, and semi-conductors. The science also has big implications about our farming practices -- and their chemical legacies. Stay informed about the best practices for using treated wood in your projects. It is a metalloid with properties of metals and nonmetals. Read this article to know more about arsenic uses. Arsenicals are one of the oldest treatments for a variety of human disorders. ” But arsenic, an element found naturally in soil, air, and drinking water, also has beneficial uses. Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. Environmental sources of arsenic exposure are food, water, soil, and air. Learn about the element's properties, uses, and sources. Learn more about Arsenic uses, effectiveness, possible side effects, interactions, dosage, user ratings and products that contain Arsenic. Learn if arsenic is still used in modern wood treatment processes and the implications for safety and health. It is a metalloid that has both metallic and non-metallic properties. The natural release of arsenic from geologic materials has become a threat to drinking water supplies around the world. Jul 22, 2022 · Arsenic is a naturally occurring element with properties similar to those found in phosphorus. This condition may occur within 1 days to 2 months after you start taking arsenic Arsenicals are one of the oldest treatments for a variety of human disorders. Arsenic is used in ammunition manufacturing because it helps to create harder and rounder bullets. Despite serious safety concerns, arsenic is often used as a part of extremely diluted homeopathic remedies that are used for digestive disorders, food poisoning, sleep problems (insomnia Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth’s crust. Some foods, such as prawns, contain a surprising amount of arsenic in a less harmful, organic form. Researchers have long known that both short-term and long-term exposure to arsenic can cause health problems, and they continue to learn more about how arsenic works in the body — what is referred to as its modes of action. ” In France, arsenic was called “inheritance powder . Why is arsenic Arsenic is one of the most ancient element known to human history. Jan 21, 2025 · Arsenic (As) – Definition, Preparation, Properties, Uses, Compounds, Reactivity Dive into the world of Arsenic with our detailed guide, tailored for educators. Arsenic mineral ores, orpiment (left) and realgar (right). Jun 30, 2022 · Arsenic occurs naturally in the environment, and is generally combined with oxygen, chlorine and sulphur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. Arsenic Trioxide This information from Lexicomp explains what you need to know about this medication, including what it’s used for, how to take it, its side effects, and when to call your healthcare provider. 2002; Hu et al. Arsenic is used as a wood preservative and in paints, dyes, metals, drugs, soaps, semiconductors, animal feed additives, and herbicides. Agent Orange, its toxic defoliant cousin, has become well known in the US for its lethal effects on American troops who served in the war 1965-75 – and on their offspring. Because it is an element, arsenic persists in the environment and does not deteriorate. Uses Arsenic is used in bronzing, pyrotechny, and for hardening and improving the sphericity of shot. Arsenic is widely distributed in rocks and soil, in natural waters, and in small amounts in most living things. Oct 29, 2025 · Arsenic is more than a poison. Learn about the uses, side effects, precautions, and interactions of arsenic and its compounds. Arsenic is highly toxic in its inorganic form. Organic arsenic compounds are used as ARSENIC What is ARSENIC? Arsenic is a silver-gray or white metallic solid element found in nature. Jul 23, 2013 · Arsenic Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that is found in combination with either inorganic or organic substances to form many different compounds. It is used industrially in processing glass, paper, adhesives, pigments, wood preservatives, and other uses. Arsenic is a trace element. It is registered for use on cotton, sod farms, golf courses, and highway rights-of-way, and may not be used in Florida except for on cotton in Calhoun, Columbia, Escambia, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Walton and Washington counties. Arsenic is a term often associated with danger and toxicity, but its presence in our food can be confusing for many. Elements in the same column usually have similar properties, so arsenic has similarities to phosphorus (P), which is a part […] Aug 16, 2024 · Arsenic poisoning occurs as a result of industrial exposure, from contaminated wine or illegally distilled spirits, or in cases of malicious intent. The amount of arsenic in soil depends on where you live. How should we think about arsenic in terms of human health? Is arsenic a poison? In its inorganic form, arsenic is extremely hazardous. Arsenic compounds are used to preserve wood, as pesticides, and in some industries. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are Nov 1, 2025 · Description Arsenic trioxide injection is used together with another medicine (eg, tretinoin) to treat newly-diagnosed low-risk acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a type of leukemia (cancer of the blood cells). If you are male, use birth control to protect a female you are having sex with from becoming pregnant while you are using Arsenic Trioxide and for some time after stopping. 2001; Chan 1994]. Here are some notable uses of arsenic: 1. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth's crust. Arsenic compounds were used extensively as pesticides and wood preservatives, but these uses have been mostly phased out. It exists in organic and inorganic forms. Arsenic Arsenic is a naturally occurring metal found in the earth’s crust. Inorganic arsenicals are generally more toxic than organic forms. Arsenic-based compounds are currently used to treat some forms of cancer. 2005]. Aug 27, 2024 · Long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic has been associated with various cancers, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, according to the World Health Organization. Nov 21, 2025 · Elemental arsenic is also used in bronzing and in pyrotechnics. In traditional Chinese medicine, arsenic compounds were used to treat various ailments, including skin diseases and certain types of cancer. Inorganic arsenic is found in soil, bedrock, and water. Gallium arsenide is used in lasers that convert electricity into coherent light. It cannot be eliminated from the environment Use birth control that you trust to avoid pregnancy while taking Arsenic Trioxide. It was banned in 1910 because it interfered with investigations into suspected poisoning deaths; old graveyards may still be a source of arsenic in groundwater. It occurs in various forms: elemental (metallic) arsenic; combined with other elements such as oxygen, chlorine, sulfur (inorganic arsenic); or combined with carbon and hydrogen (organic arsenic). However, due to health concerns, its use has decreased in many countries. Waste-disposal sites and Oct 6, 2024 · Arsenic in Medicine: A Paradigm Shift Despite its toxic nature, arsenic has also been used in medicine for centuries. 3 days ago · Learn what is arsenic trioxide also known as, including its brand name Trisenox and synonyms like white arsenic. [4] If arsenic poisoning occurs over a brief period, symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, encephalopathy, and watery diarrhea that contains blood. Learn how arsenic can affect your health, how much of it is in food and water, and how to avoid it. Arsenic could also be given as a series of smaller doses, producing a more subtle form of chronic poisoning characterized by a loss of strength, confusion and paralysis. Arsenic exists in organic or inorganic forms. Inorganic arsenic compounds are mainly used to preserve wood. From medieval times through the mid-1800s, members of Europe’s ruling classes frequently used arsenic to dispose of one another. The following notes provide some background information on this element which receives considerable publicity at times. Very highly purified arsenic finds applications in semiconductor technology, where it is used with silicon and germanium, as well as in the form of gallium arsenide, GaAs, for diodes, lasers, and transistors. Arsenic has a particular affinity for sulfur and is often found joined to sulfur in ores – mixtures of May 4, 2023 · Arsenic is the metallic element with the atomic number 33 and is represented by the symbol ‘As’ in the periodic table. Arsenic, often misunderstood, plays a crucial role in various fields. Apr 1, 2016 · Mitigation options include use of alternative groundwater sources, use of microbiologically safe sources such as rainwater and treated surface water, use of arsenic removal technologies, or dilution of high-arsenic-content source water with lower-arsenic-content source water that is microbiologically safe. Electronics: Arsenic is used in the Oct 18, 2024 · Arsenic throughout much of history has been used as a human poison and inexorably linked with death. Agent Blue, an arsenic-based herbicide, is becoming known because it has no half-life – in other words, it lasts forever in soil, sediments Arsenic is a chemical element with some interesting uses, but it's important to remember that it can be toxic. Talk with your doctor about how long to use birth control after stopping Arsenic Trioxide. Feb 10, 2023 · Arsenic poisoning occurs most often in major areas of agriculture and industrialization. Exposure occurs through ingestion of drinking water and contaminated foods and through inhalation due to pollution. He gives us an overview of the medicinal uses of arsenic, in addition to the risks and symptoms of accidental poisoning from the domestic environment. Elemental arsenic and inorganic arsenics are being used in many industrial applications. Arsenic was first recognized as an element by alchemists. 1 day ago · Arsenic is a poisonous substance with various applications in materials preservation, electronics, chemical manufacturing, and old medicine. Feb 20, 2025 · Key Takeaways: Arsenic trioxide, also known as white arsenic, has a dark past as a poison but is now used in medicine and industry, showing potential for future applications in nanotechnology and electronics. Find out how arsenic poisoning works. Dec 7, 2022 · Arsenic is a natural element that is toxic in its inorganic form. Epidemiological evidence shows arsenic induces May 24, 2017 · Learn more about arsenic poisoning, including symptoms to look out for, the most common causes, and how to treat it. Oct 12, 2018 · In his 1879 article ‘Arsenic and arsenical domestic poisoning’ he describes arsenic as “a poison in health, and a remedy in disease”. Arsenic may also be found in some naturopathic or homeopathic remedies [Kerr and Saryan 1986]. Dec 7, 2020 · Add one more primary color to the poisonous palette of Vietnam: Agent Blue. Some forms of arsenic are used as medicine. Copper chromated arsenate Apr 9, 2024 · Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral that comes in two forms. ylvj nqaveha ydys xpetzi cfds ihvf cyo ymbkhxx tbs qzmczla oqc sqrvug heaj ghuqovpc tywef