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Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury

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Identification
Molecular formula
C2H5BrHgO
CAS number
106-94-5
IUPAC name
bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury
State
State

Normally a liquid or waxy solid at room temperature, with properties dependent on environmental conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-36.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
236.70
Boiling point (Celsius)
229.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
502.70
General information
Molecular weight
295.50g/mol
Molar mass
295.5020g/mol
Density
4.4600g/cm3
Appearence

Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury typically appears as a viscous liquid or wax at room temperature. Its color can range from clear to light yellow depending on the purity and specific conditions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury

Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury, with its unique structure, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that are important for its applications and behavior in various environments.

Typically, this compound demonstrates the following solubility properties:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury is generally soluble in organic solvents, particularly those with polar characteristics.
  • Water Solubility: Its solubility in water might be limited due to the presence of the bromo group, which can hinder interaction with water molecules.
  • Temperature Influence: Like many compounds, the solubility of bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury can increase with temperature, facilitating better dissolution in organic solvents.

In practical terms, understanding the solubility of this compound is crucial as it can affect:

  • Reactivity: A more soluble compound may react more readily in solutions.
  • Toxicity:** Concentration levels in diverse environments can be modified based on solubility, impacting ecological and health assessments.
  • Application: Solubility properties influence its use in pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals.

Overall, the solubility behavior of bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury plays an integral role in its practical applications, and understanding these properties can lead to optimized usage and better safety measures in handling.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury

Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury is a fascinating compound that belongs to a class of organomercury compounds, which have both distinct chemical properties and important historical significance in various fields. Here are some noteworthy facts:

  • Antiseptic Properties: One of the key applications of bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury is its use as an antiseptic. Its effectiveness against bacteria has made it valuable in medicinal contexts, particularly prior to the advent of modern antibiotics.
  • Historical Context: This compound belongs to a broader category of mercury-based compounds that were once employed in medicine and agriculture. However, the understanding of mercury toxicity has led to a decline in its use, emphasizing the importance of safety and regulations in chemistry.
  • Mechanism of Action: The mechanism by which bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury exhibits its antibacterial effects involves the disruption of cellular processes in microorganisms. Researchers have studied its capability to bind to vital cellular components, leading to the inactivation of enzymes critical for bacterial survival.
  • Research Interest: Today, compounds like bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury continue to intrigue researchers. Chemists investigate its properties to better understand organomercury chemistry and explore potential applications, all while navigating the complexities of mercury’s toxicology.
  • Environmental Impact: As an organomercury compound, bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury raises important discussions about environmental persistence and the bioaccumulation of mercury in ecosystems. The chemistry community emphasizes responsible handling and disposal to mitigate potential ecological harm.

As you delve into the world of chemical compounds, bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury stands as a reminder of how the interplay of chemistry, medicine, and environmental science shapes our understanding of substances and their implications. Remember the quote: "With great power comes great responsibility," which resonates in the field of chemical research, especially with compounds that possess both beneficial and harmful qualities.

Synonyms
Bromo(2-hydroxyethyl)mercury
2-(Bromomercuri)ethanol
Ethanolmercury bromide
MERCURY, BROMO(2-HYDROXYETHYL)-
NSC 202914
DTXSID90178025
RefChem:352025
DTXCID20100516
23471-13-8
NSC202914
WLN: Q2-HG-E
NSC-202914