Main Entry: ad·ams·ite

Pronunciation: \ˈad-əm-ˌzīt\

Function: noun

: a yellow crystalline arsenical C₁₂H₉AsClN used as a respiratory irritant in some forms of tear gas—called also diphenylaminechlorarsine

Adams, Roger (1889–1971), American chemist. One of the foremost organic chemists of his day, Adams is remembered for determining the chemical composition of several natural substances. He analyzed chaulmoogra oil, the toxic cottonseed pigment gossypol, marijuana, and many alkaloids. He was the first American chemist to produce butacaine and procaine. He also worked in stereochemistry and with platinum catalysts and on the synthesis of medicinal compounds. He developed the poisonous gas adamsite for the United States Army during World War I, but the war ended before it could be used.