Arsenic trichloride

Arsenic trichloride, also known as arsenic(III) chloride, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is AsCl3. It has three arsenic-chlorine bonds in it. The arsenic is in its +3 oxidation state.

Properties

Arsenic trichloride is a colorless or yellowish liquid. It melts at -16°C and boils at 130.2°C. It reacts with water, similar to phosphorus trichloride, to make arsenous acid and hydrochloric acid. It makes fumes in moist air. It is highly toxic.

Preparation

Arsenic trichloride is made by reacting arsenic with chlorine or by reacting arsenic trioxide with hydrochloric acid or sulfur monochloride.

Uses

It is used to make other arsenic compounds. It is also used to make organo-arsenic compounds.

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