AsOH3

AsOH3, also known as arsenic trioxide or arsenous acid, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula As₂O₃. It is a white crystalline solid that is odorless and slightly soluble in water. Arsenic trioxide is a naturally occurring compound found in minerals like arsenolite and claudetite. It can be produced industrially through the oxidation of arsenic or arsenic-containing materials.

Historically, arsenic trioxide has been used in various applications, including as a pesticide, wood preservative, and in some traditional medicines. However, due to its extreme toxicity, its use in many of these areas has been significantly restricted or banned in many countries. Arsenic is a known carcinogen and is highly poisonous even in small doses.

In modern times, arsenic trioxide has found a niche in medicine, specifically in the treatment of certain types of leukemia, such as acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This therapeutic use is based on its ability to induce differentiation and apoptosis in cancer cells. It is administered under strict medical supervision in controlled doses. The compound's dual nature, being both a potent toxin and a valuable therapeutic agent, highlights the complex chemistry and biological effects of arsenic.