poisonous salt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "poisonous salt crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
CYANIDE: A highly toxic salt of hydrocyanic acid, famously used as a poison and often encountered in its potassium or sodium forms.
ARSENIC: While an element, its compounds often form salts (like arsenates and arsenites) which are notoriously toxic and have a long history of use as poisons.
More About "poisonous salt crossword clue"
The clue "poisonous salt" is a classic in crosswords, designed to test your knowledge of chemistry and infamous toxic substances. The most common answer, CYANIDE, refers to salts like potassium cyanide or sodium cyanide, which are extremely potent and have been featured in countless crime novels and historical events due to their rapid and lethal effects. These compounds are a staple in general knowledge and, consequently, in crossword puzzles.
Another frequently accepted answer is ARSENIC. Although arsenic itself is a metalloid element, it readily forms compounds with other elements to create salts, such as arsenic trioxide or various arsenates. These compounds are famously toxic and have been used as poisons throughout history, earning arsenic a notorious reputation similar to cyanide. Its historical context and well-known toxicity make it a strong contender for this clue, especially when the letter count aligns.
When encountering this clue, always consider the provided letter count first. If it's a 7-letter word, CYANIDE and ARSENIC are your top suspects. Thinking about the common associations of 'poison' and 'salt' will usually lead you to one of these two well-known toxic substances.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. For "poisonous salt," common answers like CYANIDE and ARSENIC are both 7 letters. This is often your first key to narrowing down possibilities.
- Consider Chemical Terms: Many crossword clues related to substances or elements often point to specific chemical compounds or elements known for certain properties (e.g., toxicity, reactivity). Familiarize yourself with common chemicals.
- Think Infamy/History: Crossword setters love clues that tap into general knowledge, including infamous substances or historical poisons. Cyanide and Arsenic fit this bill perfectly due to their long history in toxicology and fiction.
- Look for Overlapping Letters: If you have surrounding answers filled in, use those letters to help eliminate or confirm potential answers for "poisonous salt."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'poisonous salt' in crosswords?
The most common answer for 'poisonous salt' is typically CYANIDE (7 letters). ARSENIC (also 7 letters) is another very strong alternative.
Why is 'CYANIDE' a common answer for 'poisonous salt'?
CYANIDE is a chemical compound (often a salt like potassium cyanide) that is universally recognized for its extreme toxicity, making it a popular and straightforward clue in crosswords.
Can 'ARSENIC' be a 'poisonous salt' answer?
Yes, while arsenic is an element, its compounds often form highly poisonous salts (e.g., arsenates), and it is widely known for its toxic properties. Therefore, it is a very plausible answer for "poisonous salt" in crosswords.