(n.) One of the elements, a solid substance resembling a metal
in its physical properties, but in its chemical relations ranking with
the nonmetals. It is of a steel-gray color and brilliant luster, though
usually dull from tarnish. It is very brittle, and sublimes at 356¡
Fahrenheit. It is sometimes found native, but usually combined with
silver, cobalt, nickel, iron, antimony, or sulphur. Orpiment and
realgar are two of its sulphur compounds, the first of which is the
true arsenicum of the ancients. The element and its compounds are
active poisons. Specific gravity from 5.7 to 5.9. Atomic weight 75.
Symbol As.
(n.) Arsenious oxide or arsenious anhydride; -- called also
arsenious acid, white arsenic, and ratsbane.
(a.) Pertaining to, or derived from, arsenic; -- said of those
compounds of arsenic in which this element has its highest equivalence;
as, arsenic acid.
