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[change | change source]
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[change | change source]
Arsenic trichloride is made by reacting arsenic with chlorine or by reacting arsenic trioxide with hydrochloric acid or sulfur monochloride.
Uses[change | change source]
It is used to make other arsenic compounds. It is also used to make organo-arsenic compounds.