Arsenic monosulfide is a chemical compound with a molecular formula of As2S. It is also commonly known as orpiment, which is a bright yellow mineral that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. This article will provide an in-depth look at the definition and meaning of arsenic monosulfide, including its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Arsenic monosulfide is a compound that is composed of two atoms of arsenic and one atom of sulfur. It is a bright yellow solid that has a crystalline structure. It is insoluble in water but soluble in acids.
Origin
Arsenic monosulfide is found in nature as the mineral orpiment. It is commonly found in volcanic fumaroles, hot springs, and hydrothermal veins. It is also produced synthetically for use in various applications.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, arsenic monosulfide is defined as “a yellow crystalline compound As2S that is used in pigments, in the manufacture of glass, and in medicine.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines arsenic monosulfide as “a yellow mineral consisting of arsenic sulfide, used as a pigment and in traditional Chinese medicine.”
Associations
Arsenic monosulfide has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties. It has also been used as a pigment in art and textiles.
However, arsenic monosulfide is highly toxic and can cause serious health problems if ingested or inhaled. It is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of arsenic monosulfide include orpiment, arsenic trisulfide, and auripigment.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of arsenic monosulfide, as it is a specific chemical compound.
The same root words
Arsenic monosulfide contains the root words arsenic and sulfide. Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33, while sulfide is a compound of sulfur and one or more other elements.
Example Sentences
- The yellow pigment in this painting was made from arsenic monosulfide.
- Orpiment, a mineral containing arsenic monosulfide, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
- The factory workers were exposed to high levels of arsenic monosulfide, causing serious health problems.