Arsine

/ˈɑrsin/ noun

Definition

A volatile, highly toxic gas (AsH₃) formed when arsenic compounds are reduced, with a garlic-like odor.

Etymology

From arsenic + -ine (chemical suffix for volatile compounds like amine and phosphine). The term was coined in the 19th century as chemists systematically named arsenic analogs of other element hydrides.

Kelly Says

Arsine gas is one of the few signs of arsenic poisoning detectable by smell—it produces a distinctive garlic odor that became famous in forensic toxicology as the 'smell of arsenic poisoning' in mysteries.

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