Solving Chemistry Questions: Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS

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In summary, Mercury (II) sulfide (HgS) occurs in two forms - red pigment known as vermillion and black. Both forms have a color due to band gap transitions (BGT). The larger band gap is found in the form with the red color. In weak field octahedral complexes, the Δ (delta) is relatively small. The d-d transitions in these complexes are more likely to make the complex red, as the color observed is the complementary color of the absorbed frequency.
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Homework Statement



Mercury (II) sulfide. HgS, occurs in two forms. One is red pigment known as vermillion; the other is black. In both, the color is due to band gap transitions (BGT). Which form has the larger band gap?



Homework Equations



In weak field octahedral complexes, DELTA is relatively small. Are the d-d transitions in these complexes more likely to make the complex red or blue?



The Attempt at a Solution



for my first question I believe the answer is Red.
for my second question I believe the answer is blue.
 
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  • #2
Sounds like good logic. Remember that the color you see is the complimentary color of the absorbed frequency.

From Wiki: (crystal field theory)

λ absorbed versus colour observed
400nm Violet absorbed, Green-yellow observed (λ 560nm)
450nm Blue absorbed, Yellow observed (λ 600nm)
490nm Blue-green absorbed, Red observed (λ 620nm)
570nm Yellow-green absorbed, Violet observed (λ 410nm)
580nm Yellow absorbed, Dark blue observed (λ 430nm)
600nm Orange absorbed, Blue observed (λ 450nm)
650nm Red absorbed, Green observed (λ 520nm)
 
  • #3


Your answers are correct. The red form of mercury (II) sulfide, vermillion, has a larger band gap compared to the black form. This means that it requires more energy for an electron to transition from the valence band to the conduction band, resulting in the absorption of longer wavelengths of light and giving the compound its red color. In weak field octahedral complexes, the d-d transitions are more likely to make the complex red because the energy difference between the d orbitals is relatively small, making it easier for the electrons to transition and absorb longer wavelengths of light. This is in contrast to strong field octahedral complexes, where the energy difference between the d orbitals is larger, resulting in absorption of shorter wavelengths and a blue color.
 

1. How do you determine the chemical formula for Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS?

The chemical formula for Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS can be determined by balancing the charges of the elements involved. In this case, since Mercury has a charge of +2 and Sulfur has a charge of -2, the formula becomes HgS.

2. What is the molar mass of Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS?

The molar mass of Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS can be calculated by adding the atomic masses of the individual elements. In this case, Mercury has a molar mass of 200.59 g/mol and Sulfur has a molar mass of 32.06 g/mol, giving a total molar mass of 232.65 g/mol for HgS.

3. How do you balance the chemical equation for the reaction involving Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS?

To balance a chemical equation involving Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS, you need to make sure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This can be done by adjusting the coefficients in front of each compound until the equation is balanced.

4. What is the solubility of Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS in water?

Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS is insoluble in water, meaning it does not dissolve. However, it can react with certain chemicals in water to form soluble compounds.

5. How does the formation of Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS affect the environment?

The formation of Mercury (II) Sulfide HgS can have negative effects on the environment, as Mercury is a toxic element. If released into the environment, it can accumulate in organisms and cause harm to both wildlife and humans.

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