Page 15 - The Malvernian - December 2023

THE MALVERNIAN
Wheeler-Bennett Society continued... Poisons
On 25 September, Dr Kathryn Harkup delivered an insightful and engaging lecture on “Poisons”. In her lecture, she explores the role of chemists in analysing poisons as well as sharing with us three of the most notorious ones (Nux-Vomica, Phosphorus and Arsenic) which are well-featured in classical detective novels. She started her talk by explaining the development of the study of toxicology such as how that many poisonous substances were once considered to be valuable medicines and the importance of dosage in analysing poisons.
The first poison she looked at was Nux-Vomica, which is a highly dangerous chemical that could kill humans by just consuming 100mg of it. The plant where the deadly chemical can be extracted is found mostly in the Indian subcontinent and the seed of the plant is especially potent. The chemical acts as a nerve agent by causing muscles to twitch uncontrollably, which eventually leads to whole- body convulsion and suffocation in as little as 15 minutes.
While harmless as an element, phosphorus is highly reactive and can form toxic compounds such as white phosphorus when reacting under heat. As white phosphorus was once used in lighting and fire matches in the 18th and 19th centuries without awareness of its potent nature, there were widespread medical conditions among factory workers such as toothache and jaw decay. This eventually led to greater study of the chemical and the complete ban of poisonous phosphorus compounds from use in the 1970s and the passing of the UK’s first Health and Safety At Work Act 1974.
Chess Tournament
In the chess tournament, held in late November, our school’s team secured an impressive 5th place among 24 schools. A special mention goes to Pierre Lipinsky, who won every game! During four tough matches, our chess team displayed skill and determination in the wonderful game, beating far more experienced players with the power of will and imagination.
Looking forward to the next round, our chess team is geared up to continue their journey after this impressive performance.
Nathan Smith | Teacher of Physics
Arsenic is another element in the periodic
table that is highly potent and features
frequently in classical novels. It is believed
to be first used as a poison in a French royal
court in the 18th century. In the 19th century,
huge demand for metals as a result of
industrialization led to the uncontrolled and
unregulated production and sale of arsenic
which is a byproduct of metal extraction.
This prompted the UK government to pass the Arsenic Act of 1851, which is the first such law regulating the use of poisonous substances.
It is a relief to know that the study of poisons by chemists and the development of poison analysis in forensic science have led to much greater control and regulation. For example, a wide range of tests would be carried out on victims by the police if they are suspected of being poisoned and the evidence such as the Marsh test can be used as court evidence to convict criminals. In fact, Dr Harkup mentioned that all three substances discussed in her talk are completely banned in the UK!
Lastly, we thank Dr Harkup for delivering an engaging and interactive lecture and I am sure that pupils have really enjoyed her talk!
Shuaichu Pan, Upper Sixth (No.7)
THE MALVERNIAN
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