ZINC
The sulphate and the chloride of zinc are alone important. Poisoning by the chloride of zinc has been described ([p. 265]).
Sulphate of Zinc
White vitriol or white copperas.
Symptoms.—The sulphate of zinc acts as a pure irritant. Violent vomiting, accompanied with pain in the abdomen, and purging, are the symptoms which first make their appearance. These may be followed by symptoms which betoken collapse, viz. coldness of the limbs, paleness of the face, irregular pulse, and fainting.
Post-mortem Appearances.—Presence of inflammatory action.
Fatal Dose.—Uncertain.
Fatal Period.—Death has occurred in four hours.
Chemical Analysis.—Distinguished from oxalic acid by remaining fixed when heated on platinum foil.
In Solution:
1. Ammonia gives a white precipitate soluble in excess.
2. Ferrocyanide of Potassium, a white precipitate.
3. Sulphuretted Hydrogen or Ammonium Sulphide, a milky-white precipitate in a neutral pure solution.
4. Nitrate of Baryta, a white precipitate showing the presence of sulphuric acid.
5. Caustic potash or soda, a white precipitate soluble in excess.
In Organic Mixtures pass sulphuretted hydrogen, collect the sulphuret, and decompose it with boiling hydrochloric acid, then test for zinc.
Treatment.—Tea, coffee, milk, warm water, albumen, and in some cases enemata of gruel and other emollients.