Mercury(I)
Mercury(I) (also known as mercurous) is a chemical compound that contains the metal mercury in its +1 oxidation state. This is less common than the +2 oxidation state found in most other mercury compounds.
Mercury(I) compounds are all diamagnetic and feature metal-metal bonds. The cation is a dimer, it contains a pair of mercury ions with an overall charge of +2. The most common example of a mercury(I) compound is mercury(I) chloride, a toxic substance that was once used as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Mercury(I) compounds are diamagnetic and feature metal-metal bonds. The cation is a dimer, it contains a pair of mercury ions with an overall charge of +2.
Mercury(I) Chloride[edit | edit source]
Mercury(I) chloride, also known as calomel, is a common example of a mercury(I) compound. It is a white crystalline solid that was once used as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant. However, it is toxic and its use has been largely discontinued.
Safety[edit | edit source]
Mercury(I) compounds are toxic and should be handled with care. They can be absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes, leading to mercury poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include tremors, insomnia, memory loss, neuromuscular effects, headaches and cognitive and motor dysfunction.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
