Mercury(II) nitrate

chemical compound

Mercury(II) nitrate, also known as mercuric nitrate, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is Hg(NO3)2. It contains mercury and nitrate ions. The mercury is in its +2 oxidation state.

Properties

Mercury(II) nitrate is a white crystalline solid. It is a strong oxidizing agent.

Preparation

It is made by reacting mercury with concentrated nitric acid; dilute nitric acid would make mercury(I) nitrate.

Uses

It was used to make felt from fur. People would get poisoned when using it to make hats, making the term "mad hatter".

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