What Are the Properties of Arsenic?

Arsenic is a metallic element that naturally occurs within the earth, and has a chemical symbol of As. Despite its reputation as a toxic poison, arsenic has many other beneficial properties. The chemical, physical, and other properties of arsenic vary based on the form and features of this element. It can be both a metal or non-metal, and occurs in liquid, solid, and gaseous forms. Regardless of the properties and state of arsenic, this material always features an atomic number of 33, which represents its 33 electrons.

The physical properties of arsenic depend largely on how it is processed. Natural arsenic features a gray, silvery color, and serves as a highly effective conducting material. It has a garlicky odor, and is chemically stable, yet fairly brittle.

When heated, arsenic's properties change as it's transformed into a liquid, then a gas. This gas is known as yellow arsenic, and when it cools and solidifies, it develops a soft, waxy texture. Once yellow arsenic is exposed to light, it transforms into black arsenic. Black arsenic is considered a mineral, and is completely non-metallic.

To examine the chemical properties of arsenic, one must analyze features such as its boiling point and solubility. Arsenic boils at 615 degrees Celsius (1,139 Fahrenheit), while solid versions melt at 814 degrees Celsius (1,497 Fahrenheit). It is not soluble in water in its natural state, though arsenic often binds with natural salts or minerals, which may be water soluble in some cases. Depending on where arsenic is found, it may exist in a crystalline or powder form.

One of the most well known properties of arsenic is its toxicity. Man has recognized arsenic as a potent poison for more than a millennium, and has used this element as both an herbicide and insecticide. In some instances, it also served in medicinal products or even beauty and cosmetic products. Man has also used arsenic as a chemical weapon, or simply as a discreet way to poison ancient kings and other leaders.

Even in its natural state, arsenic may cause accidental illness or death if it comes into contact with local water supplies. Once ingested or inhaled, this material competes with phosphates in the body during standard metabolic processes, which eventually leads to mass organ failure.

Some properties of arsenic make it useful in industry and manufacturing. Treating copper with arsenic gives the copper a silvery finish, making it a popular tool for forgers. In modern times, arsenic is used to harden lead and copper, or to prevent discoloration in brass, bronze, and even glass. It also serves as the fastest available semiconductor, but is used infrequently due to its high cost.