Question

The linkage present in salvarsan is _______.

Options

• -N = N-

• –As = As–

• -S - S-

• -O - O-

Answer 1

–As = As–

Explanation:

Salvarsan (Arsphenamine) is an arsenic-based compound discovered by Paul Ehrlich in 1909. By analogy with azo dyes which contain –N = N– linkage, Salvarsan contains an –As = As– double bond between two arsenic atoms. This unique arsenic linkage gives it the ability to act against the bacteria causing syphilis.