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Arsenate

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Identification
Molecular formula
AsO43-
CAS number
7778-39-4
IUPAC name
arsorate
State
State

At room temperature, arsenate compounds are typically solid. They can be found in various hydrated forms or as salts.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 600.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 873.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
922.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 195.15
General information
Molecular weight
138.92g/mol
Molar mass
138.9190g/mol
Density
5.1260g/cm3
Appearence

Arsenate compounds generally appear as white crystalline solids when purified. They can also appear in powder form, usually retaining a white or off-white color.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Arsenate Compounds

Arsenate, particularly in the form of arsenate ions (AsO43-), displays varying solubility characteristics depending on the compound it forms and the environmental conditions. Generally, the solubility of arsenate can be summarized as follows:

  • Strongly Soluble Compounds: Some salts of arsenate, such as sodium arsenate (Na3AsO4), are quite soluble in water, contributing to the mobility of arsenate ions in aqueous environments.
  • Moderately Soluble Compounds: Compounds like calcium arsenate (Ca(AsO4)2) exhibit moderate solubility, which can be influenced by pH and the presence of other ions.
  • Insoluble Compounds: On the other hand, some heavy metal arsenates, such as lead arsenate (Pb3(AsO4)2), have low solubility, particularly in neutral to acidic conditions.

It is important to note that solubility can be affected by several factors:

  • pH Levels: The solubility of arsenate tends to increase in alkaline conditions.
  • Ion Competition: The presence of other cations can compete for solubility, thus altering the overall solubility of arsenate compounds.
  • Temperature: Higher temperatures can increase the solubility of many compounds, including those of arsenate.

In summary, arsenate solubility is a topic of significant interest due to its implications in environmental chemistry and public health. As highlighted, the solubility varies widely among different arsenate compounds and can be influenced by external factors, making it a complex but intriguing subject.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Arsenate

Arsenate is a fascinating chemical compound with a range of applications and implications in various fields. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: Arsenates are found naturally in minerals such as orpiment and realgar, and they can also occur in certain soils and groundwater, leading to environmental concerns.
  • Role in Biochemistry: Arsenate plays a role as an analogue of phosphate. In some organisms, it can substitute for phosphate in metabolic processes, which can have toxic effects.
  • Environmental Impact: The presence of arsenates in drinking water is a significant public health issue. Contamination can lead to serious health problems, including skin lesions and increased risk of cancer.
  • Applications in Agriculture: Arsenate compounds have historically been used as herbicides and insecticides. However, due to their toxicity, many of these uses are being reconsidered in favor of safer alternatives.
  • Historical Significance: Arsenates have been utilized in various forms since ancient times. Ancient cultures were aware of the toxic properties of arsenic and used it in poisons and pigments.

In conclusion, while arsenate may not be the most widely discussed compound, its impact on health, the environment, and even history makes it a crucial subject of study in modern chemistry. As researchers continue to explore its properties, we gain a deeper understanding of both its challenges and applications in our world.

Synonyms
Arsenate ion
Arsenate ions
Arsenate (AsO43-)
arsorate
15584-04-0
G1DBI405OK
tetraoxoarsenate(V)
tetraoxoarsenate(3-)
DTXSID40904119
CHEBI:22629
DTXCID801332002
Arsenate
Tetraoxidoarsenate(3-)
UNII-G1DBI405OK
ARSENATE ANION
AsO4(3-)
CHEBI:29125
DJHGAFSJWGLOIV-UHFFFAOYSA-K
[AsO4](3-)
ARSENIC ACID (H3ASO4), ION(3-)
Q409221