What is Hg3Cl2? Important knowledge about Hg3Cl2

1. Definition of Hg₃Cl₂

Hg₃Cl₂ or also known as Hg₂Cl₂, is a compound of mercury and chlorine, commonly referred to as Mercury (I) chloride, mercurous chloride, or calomel. Its English name is Mercury(I) chloride or mercurous chloride.

The atomic mass of Hg₃Cl₂ consists of 3 mercury atoms and 2 chlorine atoms, with atomic weights of 200.59 and 35.45 respectively. The molecule of Hg₃Cl₂ is crystalline in structure, consisting of stacked mercury and chloride particles in a hexagonal shape.

2. Properties of Hg₃Cl₂

2.1 Physical properties of Hg₃Cl₂: Hg₃Cl₂ is a solid, white crystalline substance, odorless, tasteless. The pH of Hg₃Cl₂ is undetermined as it is insoluble in water.

2.2 Chemical properties of Hg₃Cl₂: Hg₃Cl₂ is very stable, not reacting with oxygen or at normal temperature. However, it can be oxidized to HgCl₂ when heated.

3. Common chemical equations of Hg₃Cl₂: As Hg₃Cl₂ is insoluble in water, it is not commonly seen in regular chemical reactions.

4. Synthesis of Hg₃Cl₂:

4.1 Laboratory synthesis of Hg₃Cl₂: Hg₃Cl₂ is commonly synthesized by the reaction between mercury and chlorine under high temperature conditions.

4.2 Industrial synthesis of Hg₃Cl₂: In industry, Hg₃Cl₂ is typically synthesized from mercury and hydrochloric acid.