Thallium(I) sulfate

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia


Thallium(I) sulfate[edit | edit source]

Structural formula of Thallium(I) sulfate

Thallium(I) sulfate is a chemical compound with the formula Tl_SO_. It is a white, odorless, crystalline powder that is highly toxic and was historically used as a rodenticide and insecticide. Due to its toxicity, its use has been largely discontinued in many countries.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Thallium(I) sulfate is composed of thallium in the +1 oxidation state and the sulfate anion. It is soluble in water, and its solubility increases with temperature. The compound is known for its high toxicity, which is attributed to the thallium ion.

Toxicity[edit | edit source]

Thallium(I) sulfate is extremely toxic to humans and animals. It can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested. Symptoms of thallium poisoning include hair loss, nerve damage, and organ failure. Due to these severe health risks, thallium(I) sulfate is no longer widely used in pest control.

Historical Uses[edit | edit source]

Historically, thallium(I) sulfate was used as a rodenticide and insecticide. It was effective in controlling populations of rats and other pests. However, due to its non-selective toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives, its use has been restricted or banned in many regions.

Safety and Handling[edit | edit source]

Due to its high toxicity, thallium(I) sulfate must be handled with extreme care. Protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection are recommended when working with this compound. In case of exposure, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Thallium compounds, including thallium(I) sulfate, can have significant environmental impacts. They can contaminate soil and water, posing risks to wildlife and ecosystems. Efforts to reduce thallium pollution focus on minimizing industrial emissions and proper disposal of thallium-containing waste.

Related Compounds[edit | edit source]

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD