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Bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H6HgO2
CAS number
108-29-2
IUPAC name
bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury
State
State

At room temperature, bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury is a solid. It maintains its structure well in ambient conditions but may be sensitive to changes in temperature, where it transitions to a liquid near its melting point.

Melting point (Celsius)
89.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
362.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
340.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
613.15
General information
Molecular weight
358.73g/mol
Molar mass
358.7290g/mol
Density
2.6100g/cm3
Appearence

Bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury is typically found as a yellow-orange crystalline solid. It may also exhibit a slight sheen, indicating its metallic mercury content. The compound’s crystalline nature can make it reflective under certain lighting conditions. It may also appear somewhat granular to the naked eye.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury

Bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury is a compound whose solubility can be intriguing in both organic and inorganic contexts. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Solvent Compatibility: This compound tends to exhibit good solubility in organic solvents such as ethers, alcohols, and ketones, which may be attributed to its polar functional groups.
  • Aqueous Solubility: In contrast, its solubility in water is relatively low, likely due to the organic nature of the compound and the relatively large size of the mercury atom.
  • Temperature Influence: Like many compounds, solubility can be affected by temperature. Increased temperature generally enhances solubility in organic solvents.

In summary, while bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury shows favorable solubility in several organic media, its interaction with water remains limited. As chemical handling and reactivity can be influenced by solubility, understanding these aspects is crucial for applications involving this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury

bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury is a fascinating organomercury compound with intriguing properties and applications. Here are some captivating details:

  • Unique Structure: This compound features a central mercury atom bonded to two 2-oxoethyl groups, which contributes to its distinctive reactivity and behavior in chemical reactions.
  • Biological Interest: Due to its mercury content, bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury has been studied for its potential toxicological effects on living organisms, making it a point of interest in environmental science and toxicology.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: Some studies suggest that organomercury compounds like this one may exhibit antimicrobial properties, which could be valuable in developing new antibacterial agents.
  • Industrial Applications: bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury can be utilized in various industrial settings, especially in the field of organic synthesis, where its ability to act as a reagent opens pathways to produce more complex molecules.
  • Historical Context: The exploration and use of mercury compounds have significantly shaped the field of organic chemistry, providing insights into the interactions between metals and organic substances.

In conclusion, while bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury may not be as widely recognized as other chemical compounds, its unique structure and varied applications make it a subject worth studying. The ongoing research surrounding its biological impacts and industrial uses continues to add depth to our understanding of organomercury chemistry.

Synonyms
Bis(2-oxoethyl)mercury
Mercuridiacetaldehyde
Bis(formylmethyl)mercury
Mercury, bis(2-oxoethyl)-
BRN 3660631
MERCURY, BIS(FORMYLMETHYL)-
DTXSID60195966
4-04-00-04434 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID00118457
Mercury, bis(2-oxoethyl)-(9CI)
Acetaldehyde, mercuridi-(6CI,7CI)
4387-13-7
Acetaldehyde, mercuridi- (6CI,7CI)
Acetaldehyde, mercuridi-
SCHEMBL3806980