Discovered : by Albertus Magnus in the 13th century
Origin : The name comes from 'arsenikon', the Greek name for the yellow pigment orpiment.
Description :
Although it is now strongly linked with poison, arsenic was once used widely as a medicine. Dr Fowler’s Solution (potassium arsenate dissolved in water) was a popular cure-all tonic in Victorian times - even Charles Dickens used it. Arsenic compounds are still employed in making special glass and semi-conductors (gallium arsenide), preserving wood and, in some countries, to fatten poultry and pigs. Nowadays its use is strictly controlled, although some scientists claim it is an essential element in our diet in very low doses. Some foods such as prawns contain a surprising amount of arsenic.
