arsenic trioxide
Học thuậtThân thiện
A scientist carefully handles a sealed container of arsenic trioxide in the laboratory.
Definition
Noun: 1. A highly toxic, white, powdered compound: Arsenic trioxide is a chemical compound consisting of arsenic and oxygen. It is a white, odorless powder that is poisonous and was historically used in various industrial and agricultural applications.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The laboratory stored the arsenic trioxide in a securely locked cabinet due to its extreme toxicity.
- Historically, arsenic trioxide was a common ingredient in rat poisons and herbicides.
- The chemical formula for arsenic trioxide is As₂O₃.
Advanced Usage
- In medicine: In modern, highly controlled medical contexts, arsenic trioxide is used as a chemotherapeutic agent for treating a specific type of leukemia (acute promyelocytic leukemia). This is a specialized therapeutic application under strict medical supervision, contrasting with its historical use as a poison.
- Example: The oncologist prescribed a course of arsenic trioxide as part of the targeted therapy.
Variants and Related Words
- Arsenic (noun): The chemical element (As) from which arsenic trioxide is derived. Arsenic itself is a metalloid known for its toxicity.
- White arsenic (noun): A common historical name for arsenic trioxide, referring to its typical powdered form.
- Arsenous oxide (noun): An alternative chemical name for arsenic trioxide.
Synonyms
- White arsenic
- Arsenous oxide
- Ratsbane (archaic term, specifically when used as a rodenticide)
Notes on Meaning and Usage
- Primary Connotation: The term overwhelmingly carries connotations of deadly poison. Its historical uses in pesticides and its presence in crime novels have cemented this association.
- Context is Critical: The meaning is almost entirely dependent on context. In a historical or toxicology text, it refers to a poison. In a modern medical oncology context, it refers to a specific, regulated pharmaceutical.
- Caution in Use: This term should be used with precision and awareness of its serious implications. It is not a term for casual conversation.
A scientist carefully handles a sealed container of arsenic trioxide in the laboratory.
Noun
- a white powdered poisonous trioxide of arsenic; used in manufacturing glass and as a pesticide (rat poison) and weed killer