Arsenides are chemical compounds that consist of arsenic combined with another element, typically a metal. They can be found in various forms, including binary compounds, where arsenic is bonded to a single metal. These compounds are often studied for their unique properties and potential applications in materials science and electronics. In nature, arsenides can occur as minerals, and some are used in semiconductor technology. For example, gallium arsenide is a well-known arsenide used in high-efficiency solar cells and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Understanding arsenides is important for both industrial applications and environmental safety.