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Mercury(II) thiocyanate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Hg(SCN)2
CAS number
592-85-8
IUPAC name
mercuric;dithiocyanate
State
State

At room temperature, mercury(II) thiocyanate is a solid. It is usually manipulated with care due to the toxicity of mercury compounds.

Melting point (Celsius)
165.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
438.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
158.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
431.15
General information
Molecular weight
316.78g/mol
Molar mass
316.7750g/mol
Density
3.7100g/cm3
Appearence

Mercury(II) thiocyanate appears as a white crystalline powder. It is often noted for its use in chemistry demonstrations where it creates elaborate serpent-like structures when ignited.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Mercuric Dithiocyanate

Mercuric dithiocyanate, with the chemical formula Hg(NCS)2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are worthy of discussion.

Solubility Behavior

This compound is known to have limited solubility in water, which can be attributed to the strong ionic interactions and the overall lattice energy that stabilizes the solid state. However, it is more soluble in organic solvents, particularly in:

  • Alcohols
  • Acetone
  • Ethers

According to various studies, one might encounter the following insights:

  1. Solubility in aqueous solutions: Mercuric dithiocyanate is poorly soluble, making it less favorable for applications that require high water solubility.
  2. In organic media: Its solubility increases dramatically, highlighting the importance of solvent choice in extraction and reactivity.
  3. Temperature effects: An increase in temperature may enhance its solubility in some organic solvents.

In conclusion, while Hg(NCS)2 does not dissolve readily in water, it is significantly more soluble in organic solvents, allowing for diverse applications in chemical synthesis and extraction processes. Understanding these solubility traits is crucial for effectively working with this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Mercuric Dithiocyanate

Mercuric dithiocyanate, a compound that contains mercury, is notable not just for its chemical properties, but also for its intriguing history and uses in various fields. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Historical Significance: Mercuric dithiocyanate was historically used in the field of photography and various industrial applications due to its unique properties.
  • Toxicity Awareness: As a mercury compound, it highlights the importance of toxicology studies and safety protocols in handling chemicals. Mercury is well-known for its adverse health effects, necessitating stringent precautions.
  • Analytical Chemistry: It plays a role in analytical chemistry as a reagent, showcasing how compounds can aid in the detection and quantification of substances in complex mixtures.
  • Environmental Impact: The environmental implications surrounding mercury compounds emphasize the significance of chemical regulation and management to protect ecosystems.
  • Transfer of Knowledge: Research surrounding mercuric dithiocyanate serves as a critical reminder of the evolution of chemistry education and the continuous exploration of chemical safety and efficacy.

In conclusion, the study of mercuric dithiocyanate is not merely an exploration of a chemical entity, but a lesson in the broader context of chemistry's impact on health, safety, and the environment. As we delve deeper into the properties and implications of this compound, we learn to balance innovation with responsibility.

Synonyms
MERCURIC THIOCYANATE
Mercuric sulfocyanate
Mercury thiocyanate
Mercury dithiocyanate
Mercury, bis(thiocyanato)-
Mercury(II)thiocyanate
3JNH1DM7IF
Mercury, bis(thiocyanate)
Thiocyanic acid, mercury(2+) salt
Mercury thiocyanate Hg(SCN)2
HSDB 1224
Thiocyanic acid, mercury(II) salt
EINECS 209-773-0
UNII-3JNH1DM7IF
UN1646
MERCURIUS SULPHOCYANATUS
Thiocyanic acid, mercury(2+) salt (2:1)
DTXSID7060469
MERCURIC THIOCYANATE [MI]
MERCURIC THIOCYANATE [HSDB]
MERCURIUS SULPHOCYANATUS [HPUS]
MERCURIC THIOCYANATE, (SOLID)
MERCURIC THIOCYANATE, [SOLID]
MERCURY RHODANIDE
Mercuric isothiocyanate
Mercury di(thiocyanate)
Mercury, bis(thiocyanato)
DTXCID6042577
THIOCYANIC ACID, MERCURY (2+) SALT
592-85-8
mercurothiocyanate
mercury(2+);dithiocyanate
Mercuric sulfocyanide
MERCURY THIOCYANATE (HG(SCN)2)
Hg(SCN)2, Thiocyanic acid mercury salt
Mercury thiocyanate [UN1646] [Poison]
NS00079957