7783-35-9

  • English Name: Mercury(II) Sulfate
  • CAS Number: 7783-35-9
  • Molecular Formula: HgSO₄
  • Molecular Weight: 296.65

Physical Properties

  • Appearance: White crystalline solid.
  • Density: 6.47 g/cm³.
  • Melting Point: Decomposes at 615.95°C.
  • Solubility:
    • Decomposes in water to form a yellow insoluble basic sulfate and sulfuric acid.
    • Soluble in hot dilute sulfuric acid, concentrated sodium chloride solution, and hydrochloric acid.
    • Insoluble in acetone and ammonia.

Chemical Properties

  • Stability: Unstable; decomposes upon heating to form mercury(II) oxide and sulfur dioxide.
  • Reactivity:
    • Reacts with strong acids and reducing agents.
    • Sensitive to light and heat.

Uses

  • Catalyst: Used in organic reactions, such as the conversion of acetylene to acetaldehyde.
  • Electrolyte: Used in primary batteries.
  • Reagent: Used in chemical analysis and as a reagent for the determination of barbiturates and cysteine.
  • Extraction: Used in the extraction of gold and silver from roasted pyrites.

Safety Information

  • Toxicity: Highly toxic; acute oral LD₅₀ in rats: 57 mg/kg.
  • Health Hazards: Causes severe irritation to skin and eyes; inhalation may lead to respiratory distress.
  • First Aid:
    • Skin Contact: Rinse with plenty of water.
    • Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes.
    • Inhalation: Move to fresh air and seek medical attention.
    • Ingestion: Drink plenty of water and seek medical attention.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from strong acids and reducing agents.

Environmental Information

  • Ecotoxicity: Very toxic to aquatic life; may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.
  • Hazardous Decomposition Products: Mercury(II) oxide, sulfur oxides.

Transport Information

  • UN Number: UN1624.
  • Hazard Class: 6.1 (Poisonous material).

Packing and shipping