Question:

\(K_2[HgI_4]\) detects the following ion:

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Nessler's reagent (\(K_2[HgI_4]\)) → test for NH\(_4^+\) (brown precipitate).
Updated On: Apr 16, 2026
  • Cl\(^{-}\)
  • NO\(_2^{-}\)
  • NO\(_3^{-}\)
  • NH\(_4^{+}\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: \(K_2[HgI_4]\) (potassium tetraiodomercurate(II)) is known as Nessler's reagent.

Step 1:
Use of Nessler's reagent. It is used to detect the presence of ammonia (NH\(_3\)) or ammonium ions (NH\(_4^+\)).

Step 2:
Reaction and observation. When Nessler's reagent is added to a solution containing NH\(_4^+\), a brown precipitate (or yellow coloration) is formed: \[ NH_4^+ + 2[HgI_4]^{2-} + 4OH^- \rightarrow NH_2Hg_2I_3 \downarrow (\text{brown}) + 7I^- + 3H_2O \]

Step 3:
Why not other ions? Cl\(^-\), NO\(_2^-\), NO\(_3^-\) do not give a positive test with Nessler's reagent.
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