Arsenic triiodide facts for kids
Arsenic triiodide is a special kind of chemical compound. It's made from two different elements: arsenic and iodine. Its chemical formula is AsI3, which means each tiny bit of this compound has one arsenic atom and three iodine atoms joined together.
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What it's like (Properties)
Arsenic triiodide is an orange-red solid. It can easily change directly from a solid into a gas without becoming a liquid first; this is called sublimation.
When you put it in water, it dissolves and slowly reacts. This reaction creates two types of acids: arsenious acid and hydroiodic acid. The water it dissolves in becomes very acidic.
If you heat arsenic triiodide, it breaks down into other substances. It can turn into arsenic trioxide, pure arsenic metal, and iodine. It's also known as a weak reducing agent, which means it can help other chemicals gain electrons in a chemical reaction.
How it's made (Preparation)
Scientists can make arsenic triiodide by mixing sodium iodide or potassium iodide with another chemical called arsenic trichloride.
What it was used for (Uses)
In the past, arsenic triiodide was part of a medicine called "Donovan's solution." People thought it could help treat many different illnesses.
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