Aqueous Equilibrium and Precipitation Reactions- Orange Tornado

Orange Tornado

Description: A precipitate of mercury iodide is formed in the vortex of a stirred solution of a potassium mercuro-iodide. The precipitate may be dissolved and reformed by adding excess iodide ion or mercury (II) ion.

Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry

Year: 1983   Vol: 1   Page: 271

Keywords: Complex ions, Precipitates, Equilibrium, Mercury (II)

Rating:

Hazard: High

• Acute toxicity hazard – oral, dermal, inhalation
• Specific organ toxicity – nervous system, thyroid
• Electric shock hazard
• Aquatic toxicity hazard
• Reproductivity hazard
• Serious eye damage
• Skin irritation

Effectiveness: Average

• Results are observable with guidance
• Somewhat conceptually connected to course material
• Moderate failure rate
• Time to results is high
• Mild effects are seen by audience
• Primary effects are observed
• Fine manipulations

Difficulty: High

• Multiple-step procedures with varying results depending on order or amount of reagent addition
• Use of toxic reagents
• Demos requiring practice or training to perform safely and correctly
• Simple manipulations for most to perform

Safety Precautions:

• Eye protection required
• Gloves required
• Use UL approved three-prong plug and outlet
• Absorbent materials on hand
• Avoid exposure to dusts, mists or droplets
• Perform in a well-ventilated area
• Perform in a chemically resistant surface
• Prevent release of reagents to the environment

Class: Aqueous Equilibrium and Precipitation Reactions

Division: General, Inorganic Chemistry

Home| Inorganic Chemistry Demonstrations