Mercury(II) nitrate

Mercury(II) nitrate, also known as mercuric nitrate, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is Hg(NO3)2. It contains mercury and nitrate ions. The mercury is in its +2 oxidation state. 

 Properties 
Mercury(II) nitrate is a white crystalline solid. It is a strong oxidizing agent. 

 Preparation 
It is made by reacting mercury with concentrated nitric acid; dilute nitric acid would make mercury(I) nitrate.

 Uses 
It was used to make felt from fur. People would get poisoned when using it to make hats, making the term "mad hatter".

 Related pages 
Mercury(I) iodide
Mercury(II) oxide
Mercury(II) chloride

Category:Nitrates
Category:Mercury compounds