What is Nessler reagent in chemistry?

: an alkaline solution of potassium mercuric iodide used in chemical analysis especially in a test for ammonia in aqueous solution (as when obtained from water, blood, or urine) with which it forms a yellowish brown color or precipitate. — called also Nessler’s solution.

What is Nessler’s reagent and where is it used?

Nessler′s reagent is widely used in determination of ammonium compounds. It can be prepared using anhydrous mercuric iodide and anhydrous potassium iodide. It can be prepared from potassium tetraiodomercurate dissolved in potassium hydroxide.

What are the components of Nessler’s reagent?

Nessler’s reagent is prepared by mixing 2 g potassium iodide in 5 ml water. To this solution, 3 g of mercury (II) iodide is added, and the resulting solution is made to 20 ml. Finally, 40 g potassium hydroxide (30 %) is added to provide the alkaline base.

What is Nessler reagent give its use?

an aqueous solution of potassium iodide, mercuric chloride, and potassium hydroxide, used as a test for the presence of ammonia.

What kind of reagent is potassium tetraiodomercurate ( II )?

Potassium tetraiodomercurate(II) is an inorganic compound consisting of potassium cations and the tetraiodomercurate(II) anion. It is mainly used as Nessler’s reagent, a 0.09 mol/L solution of potassium tetraiodomercurate(II) (K2[HgI4]) in 2.5 mol/L potassium hydroxide, used to detect ammonia.

How is potassium tetraiodomercurate harmful to aquatic life?

Fatal in contact with skin. Fatal if swallowed. May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. Fatal if inhaled. Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician.

What should I do if I swallowed potassium tetraiodomercurate?

IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician. Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. Remove/Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. IF ON SKIN: Gently wash with plenty of soap and water. Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician.

What happens when k 2 HGI 4 is added to cu?

Solutions of K 2 HgI 4 react with Cu (I) salts to give Cu 2 HgI 4. Named after Julius Neßler (Nessler), an alkaline solution of K 2 HgI 4 is called Nessler’s reagent. This pale solution becomes deeper yellow in the presence of ammonia. At higher concentrations, a brown precipitate may form.