Arsenic oxide is a chemical compound that is widely used in various industrial applications. It is a white, odorless, and tasteless powder that is highly toxic and can cause serious health problems. In this article, we will discuss the definition, meaning, origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms of arsenic oxide.
Definitions
Arsenic oxide is a chemical compound that is composed of arsenic and oxygen atoms. It is also known as arsenic trioxide or arsenous oxide. It has the molecular formula As2O3 and a molar mass of 197.84 g/mol.
In chemistry, arsenic oxide is classified as a metal oxide. It is commonly used as a precursor in the production of other arsenic compounds, such as arsenic acid, arsenates, and arsenites.
Origin
Arsenic oxide occurs naturally in the environment, usually in the form of minerals such as arsenolite, claudetite, and senarmontite. It is also produced by the oxidation of arsenic-containing minerals, such as arsenopyrite.
Arsenic oxide is also a byproduct of various industrial processes, such as smelting, mining, and burning fossil fuels. It can be found in the air, water, and soil in areas where these activities are prevalent.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, arsenic oxide is defined as “a poisonous compound As2O3 used especially as a pesticide and in the manufacture of glass, pigments, and pharmaceuticals.”
The Oxford English dictionary defines arsenic oxide as “a white or grayish-white powder, As2O3, used in the manufacture of pigments, glass, and medicines, and as a poison.”
Associations
Arsenic oxide is commonly associated with toxicity and health hazards. It is a known carcinogen and can cause a variety of health problems, including skin lesions, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular disease.
Arsenic oxide is also associated with industrial processes, such as mining and smelting, where it is produced as a byproduct. It is often used as a precursor in the production of other arsenic compounds, such as arsenic acid and arsenates.
Synonyms
Some of the synonyms of arsenic oxide include arsenous oxide, arsenic trioxide, white arsenic, arsenic sesquioxide, and arsenolite.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms of arsenic oxide, as it is a chemical compound and not a concept that can have an opposite.
The same root words
Some of the same root words as arsenic oxide include arsenic, oxide, trioxide, sesquioxide, and arsenolite.
Example Sentences
- The production of arsenic oxide is a hazardous process that requires strict safety measures.
- Arsenic oxide is commonly used as a pesticide in agriculture.
- The presence of arsenic oxide in the soil can have serious health implications for humans and animals.
- The use of arsenic oxide in glass manufacturing dates back to ancient times.
- The toxicity of arsenic oxide has led to its ban in many countries.