Friday, February 12, 2010

What is Arsenic?



This Writing Was Written By : Md Raisul Islam Milu
Date:13-02-2010
Signature:
What is Arsenic?



Arsenic, chemical symbol as, is a metalloid solid. Its atomic number is 33, with an atomic weight of 74.92. In its standard state, it is very brittle and crystalline; arsenic sublimates when heated. That's the scientific side of arsenic, but what really makes the element a household name is the fact that it's poisonous. Arsenic has been the poison of choice for many a fictional criminal. Arsenic poisoning mainly comes from environmental causes. Contaminated air, food and water can all be a source of arsenic ingestion. It is also possible to ingest arsenic when living near improperly controlled toxic waste sites and in regions where rocks contain a high arsenic concentration. Even at levels low enough to not be toxic, arsenic has unpleasant side effects. Breathing arsenic may cause lung and throat irritation, while ingesting a smaller amount can cause nausea, vomiting and blood problems. Exposure to low levels over a longer period of time can cause darkened skin and wart-like marks. If you suspect that you have been exposed to arsenic, there are a few tests that doctors can perform. If you can get tested within a few days of the potential exposure, then a urine sample will be the best indicator of arsenic in your system. Over a longer period of 6-12 months, doctors can examine your hair and nails for indicators of high levels of arsenic in your system.

No comments:

Post a Comment