Potassium arsenite facts for kids
Potassium arsenite is a type of chemical compound. Think of it as a tiny building block made of different parts. Its chemical formula is KAsO2. This means it contains potassium and arsenite ions. Ions are like tiny charged particles that make up the compound.
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What is Potassium Arsenite Like?
Potassium arsenite is a solid substance. It's very important to know that it is extremely toxic. This means it can be very harmful or even deadly if someone touches it, breathes it in, or swallows it.
How is Potassium Arsenite Made?
Scientists can make potassium arsenite in a lab. They do this by mixing two other chemicals together. These chemicals are called arsenic trioxide and potassium hydroxide. When they react, they form potassium arsenite.
Why Was it Used? (And Why Not Anymore?)
Long ago, potassium arsenite was sometimes used as a "medicine". However, we now know it is very dangerous. It is carcinogenic, which means it can cause cancer. Because it is so toxic and harmful, it is not used as a medicine anymore.
It was also once used to kill pests, like an insect killer or pesticide. But because of its dangers, it is now banned for use as a pesticide in many places, including the United Kingdom.
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