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Mercury(II) nitrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Hg(NO3)2
CAS number
10045-94-0
IUPAC name
mercuric;dinitrate
State
State

At room temperature, mercury(II) nitrate is a solid. It is hygroscopic and forms hydrates, which are often encountered as the more commonly handled form of the compound.

Melting point (Celsius)
70.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
343.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
330.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
603.15
General information
Molecular weight
324.60g/mol
Molar mass
324.5990g/mol
Density
4.7900g/cm3
Appearence

Mercury(II) nitrate typically appears as a white crystalline solid. It is known to absorb moisture from the environment and may appear slightly damp if exposed to air. The compound is usually found in its hydrate form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Mercuric Dinitrate (Hg(NO3)2)

Mercuric dinitrate, represented by the chemical formula Hg(NO3)2, is known for its distinctive solubility characteristics. It is primarily soluble in water, which is a significant property among mercury compounds. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solubility in Water: Hg(NO3)2 is highly soluble in water due to the formation of stable mercury(II) complexes.
  • Influence of Temperature: The solubility may increase with a rise in temperature, a common phenomenon observed in many salts.
  • Potential for Hydrolysis: In solution, mercuric dinitrate may undergo hydrolysis, leading to the formation of various species that can alter the overall solubility dynamics.
  • Precipitation Risks: In certain conditions, particularly at lower pH values or in the presence of other anions, precipitates may form, impacting the solubility and availability of the compound in solution.

In summary, the solubility of mercuric dinitrate in water is notably high, but it is essential to consider factors such as temperature and pH that can influence its behavior in aqueous solutions. As with many metal nitrates, understanding these solubility traits is crucial for handling and processing this compound safely and effectively.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Mercuric Dinitrate

Mercuric dinitrate is a fascinating compound with a rich history and significant implications in both chemistry and environmental science. Here are some intriguing aspects of this chemical:

  • Composition: Mercuric dinitrate consists of mercury (Hg) combined with two nitrate ions (NO3-). This unique configuration contributes to its diverse range of properties and uses.
  • Preparation: This compound can be synthesized through the reaction of mercury(II) oxide with nitric acid, showcasing a classic example of how inorganic chemistry can create complex molecules.
  • Applications: While mercuric dinitrate is not commonly used in everyday applications, it has been employed in specialized laboratory settings and research, particularly in areas related to mercury chemistry.
  • Environmental Impact: Due to the toxicity of mercury compounds, the environmental implications of mercuric dinitrate are significant. Understanding its behavior in natural systems is crucial for assessing mercury pollution.
  • Warren's Reagent: Mercuric dinitrate is also part of a reagent known as "Warren's reagent," which is used in organic chemistry to detect and quantify the presence of unsaturated alcohols.

In summary, mercuric dinitrate embodies the complexities and challenges associated with mercury compounds. Chemists must exercise caution when handling it due to its toxicity, while also recognizing its unique role in various chemical processes. As the field of environmental chemistry evolves, continued research into compounds like this will be essential in mitigating risks associated with mercury contamination.

Synonyms
MERCURIC NITRATE
Mercury nitrate
Mercury dinitrate
10045-94-0
Citrine ointment
Mercury pernitrate
Mercury(2+) nitrate
Millon's reagent
Mercury(II) nitrate (1:2)
Nitrate mercurique
Nitrate mercurique [French]
Nitric acid, mercury(II) salt
Nitric acid, mercury(2+) salt
HSDB 1161
EINECS 233-152-3
UNII-2FMV9338BW
2FMV9338BW
Nitric acid mercury (2+) salt (2:1)
MERCURIC NITRATE [MI]
MERCURIC NITRATE [HSDB]
DTXSID9044162
MERCURIC NITRATE [WHO-DD]
NITRATE MERCURIQUE (FRENCH)
Nitric acid, mercury salt
MERCURY (II) NITRATE
DTXCID7024162
MERCURY NITRATE (HG(NO3)2)
MERCURY(II) NITRATE (HG(NO3)2)
NAMED REAGENTS AND SOLUTIONS, MILLON'S
Nitric acid, mercury(2+) salt, hydrate (2:1)
13465-31-1
nitric acid, mercury salt (van)
Mercury(II) nitrate
mercury(2+);dinitrate
SCHEMBL156178
ORMNPSYMZOGSSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N
FM76719
Mercuric nitrate [UN1625] [Poison]
Nitric acid, mercury(2+) salt (2:1)
DB-255119
NS00093538