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Mercuric sulfate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Hg2SO4
CAS number
7783-35-9
IUPAC name
trimercuric;oxygen(2-);sulfate
State
State

At room temperature, mercuric sulfate is in a solid state, existing as a crystalline powder that is stable under typical conditions. It needs to be handled carefully due to its toxicity and tendency to decompose when exposed to certain conditions or reagents.

Melting point (Celsius)
450.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
723.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
500.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
773.15
General information
Molecular weight
495.64g/mol
Molar mass
495.6380g/mol
Density
6.4700g/cm3
Appearence

Mercuric sulfate is a white crystalline powder that is odorless. It is hygroscopic and can absorb moisture from the environment, and it can appear slightly yellow or off-white due to impurities or moisture exposure.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimercuric Oxygen(2-)-Sulfate

Trimercuric oxygen(2-)-sulfate, represented by the formula Hg3(O)2(SO4), exhibits notable characteristics related to its solubility. Generally speaking, the solubility of metal sulfates can vary significantly, often influenced by the metal's oxidation state and the interactions between ions in solution.

In the case of trimercuric compounds, solubility is often low due to:

  • The high molecular weight of the compound, which can reduce the tendency to dissolve.
  • The presence of mercury, particularly in its trivalent form, which forms insoluble precipitates with sulfate ions.
  • The ionic nature of the sulfate, leading to decreased solubility in aqueous environments.

Moreover, it is crucial to consider that:

  1. Temperature can influence solubility; higher temperatures may increase the solubility of some sulfates but not universally for all.
  2. pH levels in solution can also affect solubility, influencing the ionization state of the compound.

Thus, the solubility of trimercuric oxygen(2-)-sulfate is typically quite limited, making it less favorable for use in aqueous applications. As always, when working with such compounds, it is imperative to follow safety protocols due to the toxicity associated with mercury. Overall, while fascinating from a chemical standpoint, this compound exemplifies the complexities surrounding solubility in multivalent metal sulfates.

Interesting facts

Exploring Trimercuric Oxygen(2-) Sulfate

Trimercuric oxygen(2-) sulfate, often referred to in scientific discussions as a compound involving mercury, presents a fascinating subject for chemists and researchers alike. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Mercury's Versatility: Trimercuric oxygen(2-) sulfate contains three mercury atoms, showcasing the element's multifaceted behavior. Mercury is known for its various oxidation states, and in this compound, it exhibits a +2 oxidation state.
  • Toxicity Considerations: Mercury compounds are notoriously toxic. Understanding the properties and handling of trimercuric compounds is crucial for safety in laboratory and industrial settings. As noted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even small exposures can have significant health implications.
  • Applications in Research: This compound is of interest due to its potential applications in the field of inorganic chemistry. Researchers investigate its properties to find potential uses in catalysis or materials science.
  • Complex Formation: Trimercuric compounds tend to form complex ions, which can interact with other anions to stabilize various forms of mercury in solution. This behavior is often exploited in analytical chemistry for tracing mercury in environmental samples.
  • Historical Significance: Mercury compounds have been utilized throughout history for medicinal purposes, albeit with the understanding of their toxic properties evolving over time. Trimercuric sulfate serves as a reminder of both the potential benefits and dangers of using heavy metals in medicine.

In summary, trimercuric oxygen(2-) sulfate is a compound that encapsulates the dual nature of mercury as both a useful element in scientific applications and a significant health hazard when mishandled. Understanding the chemistry behind it can lead to advancements not only in inorganic chemistry but also in safety protocols regarding mercury exposure.

Synonyms
Mercury oxonium sulfate
Turpeth mineral
Mercuric basic sulfate
Mercuric subsulfate
Trimercury dioxide sulphate
Basic mercuric sulfate
MERCURY OXIDE SULFATE
Mercury sulfate, basic
1312-03-4
HSDB 1188
EINECS 215-191-8
Mercury oxide sulphate
Mercury oxide sulfic acid
Mercury oxide sulphic acid
TRIMERCURY(2+) ION DIOXIDANDIIDE SULFATE
215-191-8
Mercury oxide sulfate (Hg3O2(SO4))
mercury(2+);oxygen(2-);sulfate
TRIMERCURY DIOXIDE SULFATE
DTXSID40927121
Mercury oxide sulfate (3/2/1)