Question

Mercurous chloride exists in the form of
A. \[Hg{^ + }\]
B. \[Hg{_2}^{2 + }\]
C. \[Hg{^{2 + }}\]
D. \[Hg{_2}^{3 + }\]

Answer 1

Hint: To answer the question you need to know the Mercurous chloride molecular formula and what will be the output when it is broken down into its ions. Mercurous chloride is an extremely toxic and corrosive chemical compound of yellow colour. The molecular formula is \[Hg{_2}Cl{_2}\] .

Complete step by step solution:
Mercurous Chloride is a chemical compound with the formula \[Hg{_2}C{l_2}\] . It is also known as mineral calomel or Mercurous chloride and is a rare mineral. It is a dense white or yellowish white and odourless solid. It is unique among the group 12 metals for its ability to form M-M. It is a linear molecule. Mercurous chloride is formed by the reaction of elemental mercury and mercuric chloride.
\[Hg + HgC{l_2} \to H{g_2}C{l_2}\]
It can be prepared by metathesis reaction involving aqueous mercury nitrate using various chloride sources including \[NaCl\] or \[HCl\]
\[2HCl + H{g_2}{(N{O_3})_2} \to H{g_2}C{l_2} + 2HN{O_3}\]
Now, \[HgCl{_2}\] can be broken down into \[Hg\] ions and \[C{l^ - }\] ions. The chemical reaction is as given below:
\[H{g_2}C{l_2} \to H{g_2}^{2 + } + 2C{l^ - }\]

Therefore, the answer to our question is option B.

Additional Information:
It is a highly toxic compound and is corrosive to mucous membranes. Which has density \[5.4g/c{m^3}\] and melting point \[{277^ \circ }C\] . It is a highly toxic compound that volatizes slightly at ordinary temperature. It has a molecular weight \[271.5g/mol\] and its boiling point is \[{304^ \circ }C\] .
It is used as a disinfectant, antiseptic, fungicide and wood preservative. Any form of mercury is poisonous when absorbed.

Note:
Mercurous chloride is a toxic compound but has a variety of applications. Like to disinfect houses. Therefore, it is important that we know about it’s properties.