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Thimerosal

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H9HgNaO2S
CAS number
54-64-8
IUPAC name
ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate
State
State

At room temperature, thimerosal is a solid compound.

Melting point (Celsius)
112.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
385.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
315.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
588.15
General information
Molecular weight
404.81g/mol
Molar mass
404.8070g/mol
Density
2.4000g/cm3
Appearence

Thimerosal usually appears as a white or slightly yellow crystalline powder. It is known for being soluble in water and having a slight odor resembling that of benzoic acid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate (C9H9HgNaO2S)

The solubility of ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate is influenced by several factors due to its unique chemical structure. Generally, this compound exhibits variations in solubility depending on the solvent used. Here's a concise overview of its solubility characteristics:

  • Water Solubility: Ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate demonstrates limited solubility in water. This is primarily due to the presence of the heavy metal Hg which typically forms complexes that are less soluble in aqueous environments.
  • Organic Solvents: In contrast, this compound is more soluble in organic solvents. Solutions such as ethanol or acetone may facilitate dissolving this compound significantly better.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility may also be affected by the pH of the solution, with changes in acidity potentially altering the compound’s ionization and stability.

In summary, while ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate may be poorly soluble in water, it shows enhanced solubility in organic solvents, making it vital to consider the solvent environment in experimental applications. As with many organomercury compounds, environmental and safety precautions should always be a priority when handling this compound due to its potential toxicity.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Ethylmercury(1+);2-Sulfidobenzoate

Ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate is a fascinating compound that showcases the intersection of organic and inorganic chemistry. Here are some noteworthy details:

  • Historical Importance: Ethylmercury compounds, particularly in the form of vaccines and preservatives, have been a significant area of study due to their unique properties and long-term effects on health.
  • Applications: This compound is often examined for its role in medicinal chemistry and as a potential preservative due to its properties as a biocide.
  • Environmental Impact: Ethylmercury is known for its potential environmental risks, which makes it important for scientists to understand its degradation pathways.
  • Toxicological Studies: The compound’s methylmercury counterpart has been extensively studied for neurotoxic effects. As such, ethylmercury(1+) is often evaluated for possible similar impacts.

Scientific Inquiry

Researchers constantly explore the chemical behavior of ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate, particularly focusing on:

  • Stability: Understanding how the compound behaves under different conditions can provide insights into its potential applications.
  • Reactivity: Investigating how this compound interacts with other environmental chemicals contributes to broader ecological studies.
  • Detection Techniques: Developing reliable methods to detect and quantify ethylmercury in various samples is crucial for both environmental and health assessments.

In summary, ethylmercury(1+);2-sulfidobenzoate serves as an intriguing subject for chemists interested in both its chemical properties and its implications for health and the environment. As stated by renowned chemists, "The study of compounds is not just about understanding their properties but also about contemplating their place in the larger context of our world." This unified view underscores the importance of continued research in this area.