Arsenic, Antimony, and Bismuth – Chemistry and Toxicology
Start with the big picture
Arsenic, antimony, and bismuth form predominantly covalent compounds, but their properties shift down the group: metallic character and basicity increase, while bismuth favors the +3 oxidation state. Their hydrides differ in stability, and their oxides range from amphoteric behavior for arsenic and antimony compounds to basic behavior for bismuth oxide. Characteristic sulfide precipitates and classical mirror tests help distinguish these elements. The lesson also links arsenic’s biochemical effects to its acute and chronic clinical features, outlines antimony toxicity and bismuth’s comparatively minimal absorption, and introduces chelation, metabolism, biomarkers, therapeutic applications, and industrial or environmental context.
What you'll learn
- Compare the oxidation states and periodic trends of arsenic, antimony, and bismuth.
- Describe key differences among their hydrides, oxides, oxyacids, and sulfides.
- Identify the purpose of classical tests used to detect arsenic and antimony.
- Relate arsenic and antimony exposure to major toxic effects and clinical findings.
- Summarize chelation, arsenic metabolism, biomarkers, and selected therapeutic uses.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
