Antimony potassium tartrate, also known as tartar emetic, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula K2Sb2(C4H2O6)2. It is a white, odourless crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It has been used in various applications, including medicine, agriculture, and as a laboratory reagent.
In medicine, antimony potassium tartrate has historically been used as an emetic, meaning it induces vomiting, and as a treatment for certain parasitic infections, particularly schistosomiasis. However, its medical use has diminished due to its toxic nature and the development of alternative medications.
In agriculture, this compound has been employed as a molluscicide, a substance used to control or eliminate snails and slugs that can damage crops. It is also utilized as an insecticide for controlling ants, cockroaches, and silverfish.
Furthermore, antimony potassium tartrate is a common reagent in laboratories, frequently used as a precipitant or reducing agent in analytical chemistry, particularly for testing metals and sulfates. Its ability to form insoluble precipitates with various metallic ions makes it useful in separating and identifying different elements.
It is important to note that antimony potassium tartrate is highly toxic and should be handled with extreme caution. Exposure to this compound can cause severe respiratory, skin, and eye irritation. Ingestion or inhalation of large quantities can lead to more serious health effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney damage, and even death.
