dimethylarsine

Dimethylarsine is an organoarsenic compound with the chemical formula (CH3)2AsH. It is a colorless, flammable gas with a strong, unpleasant odor. Dimethylarsine is a derivative of arsine (AsH3) where two hydrogen atoms have been replaced by methyl groups. It is highly toxic and considered a hazardous substance.

The compound is typically produced through the methylation of arsenic compounds. It can be generated as a byproduct in certain industrial processes or in laboratory settings. Due to its toxicity, handling and storage of dimethylarsine require strict safety precautions. It is soluble in organic solvents and reacts with oxidizing agents.

Dimethylarsine is not widely used in commercial applications due to its extreme toxicity and the availability of less hazardous alternatives. Its primary significance lies in its role as a research chemical and in studies related to arsenic chemistry and toxicology. Exposure to dimethylarsine can cause severe health effects, including respiratory irritation, neurological damage, and can be fatal.