🔹 Basic Information

• Element Name: Arsenic
• Discovered By: Known since ancient times (first isolated by Albertus Magnus in 1250)
• Year of Discovery: Known since ancient times
• Category: Metalloid
• Group: 15 (Group VA – Nitrogen Group)
• State at Room Temperature: Solid (usually gray metallic form) ⚫

Arsenic is a metalloid, which means it has properties of both metals and nonmetals. It occurs naturally in the Earth’s crust and is famous (or infamous) for being both toxic and useful.

🔸 Chemical Properties

• Chemical Symbol: As
• Atomic Number: 33
• Atomic Mass: ~74.92 u
• Valency: 3 or 5
• Electronic Configuration: [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s² 4p³

Arsenic forms compounds like arsenides, arsenates, and arsenites. It can bond with both metals and nonmetals and reacts with oxygen when heated.

📘 Basic Things to Know

Arsenic exists in several forms, including gray (metallic), yellow, and black. The gray form is most stable and commonly seen. While it’s famous for being poisonous, it’s also naturally found in soil, water, and even foods in tiny amounts.

Some arsenic compounds are used carefully in industry and medicine, but they must be handled with strict safety rules.

🤔 Interesting Facts

• Arsenic was once called the “King of Poisons” in history. 👑☠️
• Despite its toxicity, it was used in traditional medicine and even as a beauty product in the past! 💄
• Arsenic can naturally seep into groundwater, which is a serious health concern in some regions. 🚰
• Some animals and bacteria can survive in arsenic-rich environments.
• Arsenic is also used in semiconductors, like gallium arsenide, for electronics.

🔧 Common Uses

• Semiconductors: Gallium arsenide is used in LEDs, solar cells, and laser diodes. ⚡💡
• Wood Preservation (historically): Arsenic compounds were used to protect wood from insects and rot (like CCA-treated wood). 🪵
• Pesticides: Still used in some herbicides and insecticides, though usage is now limited. 🐛
• Alloys: Small amounts are added to lead alloys to make bullets and batteries harder. 🔋
• Glass and Ceramics: Used in making certain types of specialty glass and glazes.

📚 Conclusion

Arsenic is a complex element — highly toxic in large amounts but useful in many controlled applications. It reminds us that chemistry is about balance and responsibility. For students, arsenic is a great example of how something naturally dangerous can also be scientifically valuable when handled safely. ⚖️🔬