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Mercury (II) Acecate

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Identification
Molecular formula

C4H6O4Hg

CAS number
1600-27-7
Solubility details
Solubility in water
25.00g/L
State
State

solid

Melting point (Celsius)
179.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
452.15
General information
Molar mass
318.7000g/mol
Density
3.2700g/cm3
Appearence

white crystals

Comment on solubility

Solubility of C4H6O4Hg

The compound C4H6O4Hg, commonly known as mercury(II) acetate, exhibits interesting solubility properties. Understanding its solubility behavior is essential for its applications in various chemical processes. Here are some key points regarding the solubility of this compound:

  • Polar Solvents: Mercury(II) acetate is generally soluble in polar solvents, such as water, due to its ionic nature. The presence of acetate ions facilitates interaction with water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: This compound also shows solubility in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone, which possess polar characteristics, allowing for better solvation.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of C4H6O4Hg may increase with temperature, a common phenomenon in many chemical compounds.
  • pH Effects: The solubility can be affected by the pH of the solution; variations in acidity can lead to different solubility profiles due to ionization of the acetate groups.

In summary, C4H6O4Hg has a notable solubility in both polar and some organic solvents, making it versatile for various applications. However, caution is advised due to the toxic nature of mercury compounds.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Mercuric Acetate

Mercuric acetate, known chemically as mercury(II) acetate, is a fascinating organic mercury compound with a variety of applications and historical significance in chemistry. Here are some compelling aspects of this compound:

  • Unique Applications: Mercuric acetate is used prominently in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including acetic acid derivatives. Its reactivity allows chemists to utilize it as a reagent in organic transformations.
  • Historical Relevance: Once widely used in the manufacture of certain types of pigments and dyeing textiles, mercuric acetate played a crucial role in the development of chemical industry practices during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Toxicity Awareness: Due to the toxicity of mercury compounds, mercuric acetate is handled with extreme caution in laboratories. Proper safety protocols are essential when working with this compound, underscoring the need for education on the hazards of mercury in chemistry.
  • Chirality in Organometallic Chemistry: Mercuric acetate can form chiral complexes that are essential for studying asymmetric synthesis, making it an important compound in the field of organometallic chemistry.
  • Physical Properties: Although we won’t delve into specifics like appearance or melting points, it is commonly noted that mercuric acetate is a white crystalline solid with characteristics typical of ionic compounds.

As a compound, mercuric acetate embodies the dual nature of chemical substances: powerful in its ability to enable complex reactions, yet dangerous due to its toxicity. Its multifunctional roles in both synthetic chemistry and historical applications continue to make it a subject of study and caution in the scientific community.