Barium Arsenate

Barium arsenate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ba3(AsO4)2. It is a white, odorless solid that is insoluble in water. Barium arsenate is commonly used as a rat poison and as a reagent in analytical chemistry.

Barium arsenate has a crystal structure that belongs to the orthorhombic system. Its space group is Pnma, with lattice parameters of a = 14.539 Å, b = 5.831 Å, and c = 7.640 Å. The compound forms crystals that are elongated along the a-axis.

When heated to high temperatures, barium arsenate decomposes to form barium oxide and arsenic oxide. The reaction is:

Ba3(AsO4)2 → 3BaO + As2O5

Barium arsenate is toxic and can cause serious health effects if ingested or inhaled. It is classified as a carcinogen and a mutagen. Proper safety precautions should be taken when handling this compound, including wearing gloves, a lab coat, and protective eyewear.