Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide

2HgO → 2Hg + O2

Visão geral

Mercury(II) oxide decomposes when heated to about 500 C into mercury metal and oxygen gas. This reaction is historically significant as it was used by Joseph Priestley in 1774 to discover oxygen. The red powder turns into shiny mercury droplets when heated.

Participantes

Papel Substância Coeficiente Estado
Produto Oxygen O 1 (g)
Produto Mercury Hg 2 (l)

Exemplo do cotidiano

This reaction is primarily of historical significance, demonstrating a fundamental chemical principle in the discovery of oxygen.

Importância industrial

Embora já não seja utilizada industrialmente, esta reação foi crucial para o desenvolvimento da química moderna e a nossa compreensão dos elementos e compostos.

Propriedades

Tipo
Decomposition
Reversível
Sim
Energia
Endotérmico
ΔH
181,6 kJ/mol

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide?
The balanced equation is: 2HgO → 2Hg + O₂.
What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide?
Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide is a decomposition reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide exothermic or endothermic?
Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 181.6 kJ/mol.