arsenate

Arsenate is a chemical compound related to arsenic, where arsenic atoms are bonded with oxygen atoms. It closely resembles phosphate, which is essential for energy transfer in living organisms like plants and animals. Because of this similarity, arsenate can interfere with biological processes by mimicking phosphate, potentially disrupting normal cellular functions. Arsenate can be toxic, especially if ingested or accumulated in the environment, posing health risks. Understanding arsenate is important for assessing environmental safety and managing exposure to arsenic-related compounds.