Mercurous iodide

Mercurous Iodide is a chemical compound with the formula Hg2I2. It is a less common compound of mercury, and is one of the few mercury compounds that is not toxic.

Chemical Properties

Mercurous Iodide is a red crystalline solid. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in solutions of iodide ions. It is a weak reducing agent and can be oxidized to mercuric iodide (HgI2) by strong oxidizing agents.

Preparation

Mercurous Iodide can be prepared by the reaction of mercury with iodine in the presence of water. The reaction is slow and requires heating to complete. The product is a red crystalline solid that can be purified by recrystallization from water.

Uses

Mercurous Iodide is used in the preparation of other mercury compounds. It is also used in some types of photographic film, where it forms part of the light-sensitive layer. In medicine, it has been used as a topical antiseptic, although this use is now rare due to the availability of safer alternatives.

Safety

Although Mercurous Iodide is one of the few mercury compounds that is not toxic, it should still be handled with care. It can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled, and can cause skin and eye irritation. It is also a potential environmental hazard, as it can bioaccumulate in the environment and cause harm to wildlife.

See Also

• Mercury (element)
• Mercuric Iodide
• Iodine