The above chemical equation describes the reaction of Mercury(II) sulfate (HgSO4) to produce Mercury(II) Oxide (HgO), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Oxygen (O2). According to the equation, 2 moles of HgSO4 will produce 2 moles of HgO, 2 moles of SO2, and 2 moles of O2.
- Reaction conditions
This reaction typically occurs under high temperature, the contact with heat will cause HgSO4 to decompose into HgO, SO2, and O2.
- Reaction process
When 2 moles of mercury(II) sulfate dye are heated, they decompose to produce 2 moles of mercury(II) oxide, 2 moles of sulfur dioxide, and 2 moles of oxygen. This reaction process releases heat, which is a spontaneous process.
- Occurring phenomena
When the reaction takes place, we can observe the color change of the reactant from the white color of mercury(II) sulfate to the reddish-brown or orange color of mercury(II) oxide. Simultaneously, sulfur dioxide and oxygen gas will be released. Sulfur dioxide is a pale yellow gas with a characteristic smell, while oxygen is colorless and odorless.