(ar′sĕ-nik, ars′nik)

[L. arsenicum, fr Gr. arsenikon, yellow orpiment]
SYMB: As A poisonous, grayish-white metallic element, atomic weight (mass) 74.922, atomic number 33, specific gravity 5.73. It is used in the manufacture of dyes and medicines.
Arsenic may be present in soil, water, and air as a common environmental toxicant. Minute traces of arsenic are found in vegetable and animal life (and in eggs). Many household and garden pesticides contain various forms of arsenic. All of these are toxic if ingested or inhaled in sufficient quantity. An accumulation of arsenic in the body will cause alimentary tract disorders, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, neuritis, and paralysis of the wrist and ankle muscles.
SYN: SEE: arsenium
SEE: arsenic poisoning

CAS# 7440-38-2