CSIP: PRELIMS BOOSTER SERIES-197 Science and Technology

News

Thallium Poisoning

 

Thallium is a toxic metal element (symbol Tl) with atomic number 81, known for its extreme toxicity. It does not freely occur in nature. Thallium has no colour, odour or taste. Its use is regulated in India. Thallium is also called the “poisoner’s poison”.

 

Properties

Appearance Silvery-white tarnishes to

Gray

State  at  Room Temperature Solid

 

Common Uses

  • Historically used in low-temperature
  • Radioactive isotopes are used in medical
  • Limited industrial

Health Hazards

  • Extremely toxic when ingested or inhaled.
  • Can cause severe health issues, including nerve and kidney damage.
  • Mere contact with thallium can cause poisoning as it is highly soluble in water and can easily pass through the the skin. 
  • It is also a suspected carcinogen.

Antidote

  • Prussian blue is used to remove thallium from the body.