Appendix A Page 1 of 21

School Science Lessons

Appendix A, Chemical compounds by chemical name
Updated: 2010-12-18 CH
Please send comments to: J.Elfick@uq.edu.au

See 7.2.2: Elements and chemical reactions | See 19.4.0 Food chemistry | E number = food additive
Chemical Name Molecular formula, synonyms or similar or mineral, (notes on use)
Acetic anhydride (CH3CO)2O, is highly volatile liquid with an irritating odour because acetic acid
forms by reaction with moisture in the air. Acetic anhydride is corrosive to the skin,
eyes and gut, but has low toxicity because of conversion to acetic acid, a natural
component of the human diet. If mixed with water, it becomes acetic acid by
hydrolysis in less than 3 minutes, heat is evolved, but the reaction catalysed by the
acetic acid formed is not dangerous if < 25 mL is used. Prepare acetate esters from
alcohols by reaction with acetic anhydride. The reactions with water can be
hazardous, with alcohols may be vigorous if acid catalysts present, with boric acid,
chromium (VI) oxide, permanganate salts, nitric acid and metal peroxides may be
Explosive.
CH3COOH, ethanoic acid, weak acid, Ka small, colourless, mobile liquid, r.d.
glacial acetic acid, 17 M, 1.05 gm cm-3, b.p. 118oC, solidifies 16.7oC, conc. 17.5
Acetic acid M, dilute 6 M, miscible with water, pungent odour, "glacial" ethanoic acid,
(vinegar, eisel, is about 5% acetic acid, sour wine), E260, (anti-bacterial medicine,
cleaner, sanitizer, stain remover, food).
(CH3)2C=O, CH3.CO.CH3, dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone, clear colourless volatile
liquid, characteristic smell, inflammable, r.d. 0.79 gm cm-3, b.p. 56.5oC, miscible
Acetone with water and ether and oils, sharp sweet taste, characteristic odour, (solvent for
resins, primers, plastics, in some nail polish removers and paint thinner, may be
sold as "pure acetone"). UN CAS No 1090
Acetylene C2H2, ethyne, Use acetylene in a fume cupboard or ruse very small quantities in a
well-ventilated area. Use eye and skin protection to avoid splashes. Mixtures of
acetylene and air may be dangerously explosive. Also, explosive acetylides form
when acetylene reacts with silver or copper (I) salts. Formerly, bicycle "carbide
lamps" used calcium carbide + water --> acetylene + calcium hydroxide. However,
the calcium carbide used to decompose in moist air to form the unpleasant odour of
acetylene. The gas has a foul smell because of the presence of traces of phosphorus
hydrides. This decomposition could be lessened by pouring petroleum over the
calcium carbide to exclude air and moisture. Acetylene forms highly explosive
mixtures with air, but is otherwise not toxic. As prepared from the reaction of
calcium carbide with water, it usually has an evil smell because of the presence of
small amounts of phospines. Do not inhale the impure gas. Handle acetylene
cylinders with care. Unplanned release of a large quantity of acetylene may result in
a serious fire or explosion. In acetylene cylinders, acetylene is dissolved in acetone
supported on a porous diatomaceous earth base. The pressure inside an acetylene
cylinder is therefore lower than in other cylinders that contain compressed gases,
e.g. nitrogen.
Adipic acid Hexanedioic acid, butanedicarboxylic acid, (CH2)4(COOH)2, colourless needles,
(used to make nylon 6,6 (Bri nylon), and polyester resin).

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 2 of 21

Aluminium Hydrates, AlCl3.6H2O, anhydrous AlCl3 is covalent.

chloride
Aluminium Al(OH)3 solution, is amphoteric,
hydroxide 1. as a base, aluminium hydroxide with acids forms aluminium salts,
2. as an acid, aluminium hydroxide with bases forms aluminates, [Al(OH)4(H2O)2]-
.
Al2O3, alumina (porcelain), amphoteric, corundum (hardness 9, abrasive, in red
ruby, in blue sapphire), diamantine, emery powder, (abrasive), corroded aluminium,
Aluminium oxide
(bauxite, hydrated aluminium oxides Al2O3.nH2O + laterite), alumina hydrate for
craft, alumina has amorphous or crystalline state in corundum and bauxite.
Al2(SO4)3.K2(SO4).24H2O, KAl(SO4)2.12H2O, potash alum, potassium alum,
Aluminium kalinite, hydrated aluminium potassium sulfate, aluminium potassium sulfate 12-
potassium sulfate hydrate, alum sold at grocery shops. It is very astringent and is used for purifying
water.
Al2(SO4)3.18H2O, wrongly "alum", E520, foam agent in fire extinguishers, water
Aluminium filter powder, flocculation agent, food additive E520, modifier, precipitator in
sulfate sewage treatment, mordant, paper sizing, for 0.l M solution., 66 g of hydrated salt
in 1 L water.
Ammonia NH3, (weak ammonia, about 10%, is sold as a household cleaner), Ammonia is an
Ammonia extremely irritating gas and is flammable in the presence of sufficient oxygen. Do
solution not prepare ammonia in an open room. Use a fume cupboard. Ammonia is less
dense than air. Ammonia solution is a weak electrolyte so the properties of the
molecules and the ions in the solution affect its properties. Concentrated ammonia
solution forms ammonia gas whenever the container holding it is opened. Ammonia
is extremely irritating to the nose and lungs. If ammonia solution is spilt a fume
cupboard evacuate the area until the ammonia fumes have dispersed. Do not allow
ammonia solution to contact the skin. Do not add concentrated ammonia to solid
iodine because a black solid, called touch powder, NI3NH3, forms. If dry, the
slightest friction causes it to explode. Do not add concentrated ammonia to bleach
or bleaching powder because nitrogen trichloride, NCl3, may form. This is a
violently unstable liquid that may explode. Do all experiments using ammonia in a
fume cupboard.
Ammonium NH4HCO3, ammonium hydrogen carbonate, white crystals, crystal ammonia, in
bicarbonate some baking powders.
(NH4)2CO3, sal volatile, aromatic spirits of ammonia, salt of hartshorn, ammonium
sesquicarbonate, sold as "smelling salts", baker's ammonia, crystal ammonia,
Ammonium
colourless crystals or white powder, ammonia-like odour, very soluble, decomposes
carbonate
in hot water, E503 (commercial ammonium carbonate is double salt
NH4HCO3.NH2COONH4 that releases ammonia, in sal volatile, smelling salts).
NH4Cl, sal ammoniac, colourless, odourless, cubic crystals or crystal mass, white
Ammonium
chloride granular powder, sublimes without melting, weakly hygroscopic, saline taste,
(soldering flux, dry cell flux in torch battery).
Ammonium (NH4)2CrO4, yellow monoclinic crystals, decomposes at 185oC, loses ammonia

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 3 of 21

chromate gas, alkaline solution, needs cool storage.

(NH4)2Cr2O7, ammonium dichromate, orange red monoclinic crystals, heat
decomposes, (Not "ammonium bichromate"). The hazardous properties of this salt
are similar to those of other soluble chromate and dichromate salts. Ammonium
dichromate, along with other yellow chromate and orange dichromate salts is
Ammonium believed to be carcinogenic. An ammonium dichromate is unusual in that it
dichromate (VI) undergoes an exothermic decomposition on heating to form green chromium (III)
oxide, nitrogen gas and water. Start the reaction with a lighted match. The reaction
continues because it is exothermic. This reaction is not dangerous if only small
quantities of material are used. The reaction is dangerous if particles of
undecomposed ammonium dichromate are projected into the air and inhaled.
Ammonium dichromate is often used in the volcano experiment.
Ammonium iron (NH4)2SO4 FeSO4.6H2O, Fe(NH4)2(SO4)2.6H2O, ferrous ammonium sulfate,
(II) sulfate Mohr's salt, pale blue-green, monoclinic crystals or granules, in air slowly oxidizing
and efflorescent, r.d. 1.86, store in dark place.
NH4NO3, colourless crystals, soluble in water and ethanol, nitrate of ammonia
Ammonium
nitrate garden fertilizer, in explosives, (must not be mixed with diesel oil to make an
explosive mixture).
Ammonium (NH4COO)2.H2O, ammonium ethanedioate-1-water colourless, odourless, rhombic
oxalate crystals or white granules, if heated decomposes before melting.
Ammonium (NH4)2S2O8, Ammonium persulfate, ammonium peroxydisulfate, solutions < 25%,
persulfate may be used for etching of copper and printed circuit boards. Solid dust may
damage intestinal tract and cause allergy reaction. Use safety glasses.
Ammonium (NH4)3PO4, triammonium phosphate (V)-4-water, nitrogen and phosphorus garden
phosphate fertilizer.
(NH4)2SO4, colourless, odourless, rhombic crystals or white granules, soluble in
Ammonium
sulfate water but not ethanol, decomposes above 280oC, sulfate of ammonia garden
fertilizer, E517, cakes when stored, mascagnite mineral.
Ammonium NH4SCN, white-yellow, monoclinic, deliquescent crystals, m.p. 16oC, test for
thiocyanate
ferric iron, in fixatives and explosives.
Aniline C6H5NH2, aniline oil, phenylamine, aminobenzene, clear, oily, liquid, colourless,
but darkens to brown-red, distinct odour and taste, poisonous vapour, inflammable,
b.p. about 182oC, flash point about 70oC, store in dark secure bottles.
Anthraquinone Anthraquinone, C14H8O2, (9,10-dioxanthracene), light grey crystal or powder, (in
plant pigments, cochineal, alizarin red), (laxative in senna pods, cascara, rhubarb)
Anthraquinone-2-sulfonate, sodium anthraquinone-2-sulfonate, Harmful if ingested
Aqua regia "royal water", 1 part concentrated HNO3 (aqua fortis) + 3 parts concentrated HCl,
dissolves gold the "king of metals" to form AuCl4, most other acids cannot attack
gold so aqua regia is called "the acid test" of gold, dissolves platinum to form
H2PtCl6

Barium carbonate BaCO3, witherite, (used for craft, barium oxide flux).

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 4 of 21

Barium chloride- BaCl2.2H2O, barium chloride, colourless, rhombic, odourless crystals or white
2-water granules, m.p. 925oC.
Barium chromate BaCrO4, for craft, in pyrotechnics, paint pigment, corrosion control, safety
matches, with explosives as initiator.
Barium hydroxide Ba(OH)2, barium hydroxide solution, (baryta water).
Barium oxide BaO, baryta, heavy spar, flux for craft, raises refractive index in optical crown
glass, cathode ray tube coating.
BaSO4, barium white, blanc-fixe, fixed white, permanent white, barytes, heavy
Barium sulfate
(VI) spar, almost insoluble in water, forms heavy white precipitate, (X-ray contrast
meal, soil analysis, lake paint pigments).
Borax Na2B4O7.10H2O, di-sodium tetraborate-10-water, E285, sodium tetraborate
decahydrate but commercial borax partially dehydrated , di-sodium tetraborate,
tynkal, colourless, mineral, white powder, odourless, monoclinic crystals or
granules, r.d. 1.73, m.p. 75oC, efflorescent in dry air, melts at 75oC, anhydrous at
320oC, mildly toxic so avoid ingesting and skin contact, (buffer solutions, , fire
retardant, metallurgy flux, washing powders (laundry booster), bath cleaning,
fungicide, insecticide, detergent booster, preservative, but not allowed in most
countries), used a lot in the furniture industry.
H3BO3, boracic acid, orthoboric acid, trioxyboric (III) acid, colourless, odourless,

Boric acid white to transparent, triclinic crystals, m.p. about 160oC, if heated decomposes to
anhydride B2O3, occurs near fumaroles, (sold in pure form as a powder as eye
medicine, disinfectant, insecticide), E284.
CH3COCOCH3, 2,3-butanedione, dimethylglyoxal, dimethyldiketone, diacetyl,
Butanedione
biacetyl, butter flavour, creamy odour.
Butenedioic acid C4H4O4, HCOOHC:CHCOOH, (CH2)2(COOH)2, cis and trans forms
Butenedioic acid, cis form: cis-butenedioic acid, maleic acid, maleinic acid,
malanic acid, toxilic acid
Butenedioic acid, cis form: maleic acid heated forms maleic anhydride: (-
CO.C.CO-), cis-butane-1,4-dioic anhydride
Butenedioic acid, trans form: fumaric acid, (fumarates), fruity taste, Food acid
E297, in Fumaria officinalis, mushrooms, lichens
Butenedioic acid, trans form: trans-butenedioic acid, fumaric acid, (in Krebs cycle)
Cadmium iodide CdI2, white lustrous, flaky odourless crystals becoming yellow in light and air.
Cadmium CdSe, cadmium (II) selenide, cadmoselite mineral, cadmium red, craft overglaze,
selenide "pigment red 108", transparent to infrared light.
Cadmium sulfide CdS, craft yellow overglaze, cadmium yellow, pigment yellow 35, 36, semi-
conductor, in light detectors, Greenrockite, Hawleyite, insoluble in water
Calcium carbide CaC2, calcium dicarbide, "carbide", acetylenogen, Calcium carbide was used in
carbide lamps in cave explorer lamps, formerly in bicycle headlamps and
underground mines. Many fires and explosions resulted from these lamps and they
are now rarely used.
The main hazard with calcium carbide is the ignition of air / acetylene mixtures. A

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 5 of 21

violent explosion may occur, depending on the proportions of air and acetylene.
Acetylene, when undiluted with air, burns with a smoky flame. Before igniting
acetylene, be sure that it is not mixed with air. Commercial calcium carbide usually
contains sulfur and phosphorus compounds that react with water to form strongly
smelling gaseous impurities that act as a convenient indicator for the presence of
acetylene.
CaCO3, powder, almost insoluble in water unless dissolved CO2 present, calcite,
chalk, limestone, Iceland spar, marble chips, marble whiting, whiting, chalk, calc
Calcium spar, precipitated chalk, pearl, coral, egg shells, whitewash, calcimine, seashells, (in
carbonate antacid medicines to suppress reflux), Vienna lime, E170 firming agent food
additive), heated in lime kiln to form lime CaO, powdered abalone or oyster shell
used as folk medicine. (school chalk, but usually school chalk is calcium sulfate)
Calcium Ca(H2PO4)2.H2O, calcium tetrahydrogen di-orthophosphate, calcium dihydrogen
dihydrogen phosphate.
phosphate
CaCl2, white granules or lumps, very hygroscopic, m.p. 772oC, (drying agent,
Calcium chloride desiccant), E509, used to form calcium metal, sold as laundry booster, road salt (de-
icing agent but must be pure calcium chloride)
Calcium fluoride CaF2, fluorspar, fluorite, white crystalline solid, thermoluminescent, for craft,
(source of hydrofluoric acid and fluorine, used in opal glass).
Calcium calcium hydrogen carbonate, calcium bicarbonate, Ca(HCO3)2, temporary hardness
hydrogen in water, stable in solution.
carbonate
Calcium Ca(OH)2, powder, solution, limewater, slaked lime, hydrated lime, caustic lime,
hydroxide slightly soluble, (whitewash, milk of lime, garden lime), E526.
Ca(OCl)OH, bleaching powder, (30% chlorine), chlorinated lime, chloride of lime,
calcium oxychloride grey-white powder, irritating odour, exothermic when
dissolved in water, may explode if not stored securely, (bleaching powder contains
both calcium hypochlorite [calcium chlorate (I), chlorinated lime] and calcium
hydroxide, water sanitizing, whitening agent, "solid chlorine" is 70% chlorine for
swimming pools). Bleaching powder forms chlorine gas, which is highly irritant to
the lungs. If acid is added to bleaching powder, large amounts of chlorine are
produced. The mixture becomes hot and may boil violently. Do not add
Calcium concentrated ammonia to bleaching powder because nitrogen trichloride, NCl3,
hypochlorite
may form. This is a violently unstable liquid, liable to explode without apparent
reason. Bleaching powder is a convenient source of chlorine gas for other
experiments. Add dilute hydrochloric acid from a dropping funnel to a slurry of
bleaching powder and water in a conical flask fitted with a rubber stopper and gas
collection system. Keep a solution of sodium hydroxide nearby to stop the reaction.
Adding sodium hydroxide solution to the mixture does not pose any problems.
Dispose of the waste mixture by diluting it with water and washing it down the
drain.
Calcium
magnesium CaCO3MgCO3, dolomite [Also, "dolomite" is any high Mg:Ca carbonate rock.].
carbonate

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 6 of 21

Calcium nitrate Ca(NO3)2.4H2O, calcium nitrate (V)-4-water, crystals.

CaO, lump, quicklime, lime, caustic lime, burnt lime, E529, thermoluminescent in
Calcium oxide oxy-hydrogen flame, limelight, for excess soil acidity, sold in building supplies
shops
Calcium Ca3(PO4)2, white powder, insoluble, from apatite mineral Ca5(PO4)3(OH, F, Cl),
phosphate (V) and rock phosphate, from animal bones and teeth, (used for fertilizer, facilitate
uptake of DNA into cells, "bone ash" for craft), E341 Calcium phosphates, (buffer,
sequestrant), formerly "calcium orthophosphate".
CaSO4.2H2O, powder, calcium sulfate dihydrate, gypsum, calcium hemihydrate,
anhydrite mineral, (plaster of Paris, CaSO4.1/2H2O, potter's plaster, school chalk,
Calcium sulfate
(VI) blackboard chalk, selenite, craft modelling powder), E516, (can be shaped before
setting, stain remover), alabaster, in evaporating lakes, anti-inflammatory action in
human body
Graphite C, Graphite powder (1-2 micron), colloidal, in oil solution to coat pith balls to give
a conducting surface, dry lubricant.
Chromic (VI) acid, H2CrO4, (sodium dichromate in sulfuric acid), Formerly, a
Chromic acid glass-cleaning solution "chromic acid" was prepared by mixing a metal chromate or
Chromium (VI) dichromate with concentrated acid in a chromate salt solution. However, this
oxide solution is dangerous and other glass cleaning detergent solutions should be used.
Chromium (VI) oxide, forms explosive mixtures with combustibles or organic
compounds and should not be used for glass cleaning.
Chromium (III) Cr2O3, chromium oxide, chromium trioxide, chromic oxide, chrome green, green
oxide chromium oxide for craft.
C6H8O7, CH2.COOH.HO.C.COOH.CH2COOH, colourless to white crystalline
powder, odourless, translucent, orthorhombic crystals or granules, "2-hydroxy
Citric acid propane-1, 2, 3-tricarboxylic acid", m.p. about 100oC, slightly deliquescent in moist
air, loses water of crystallization in dry air, (lemon juice), store in tight containers,
Also "2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid", about 10% dry weight of
lemons.
Cobalt (II) CoCl2.6H2O, dark red crystals, pink powder, cobalt chloride, cobaltous chloride,
chloride (test for water)
Cobalt (II) oxide CoO, cobalt oxide, cobaltous oxide, green-orange to pink solid, craft blue glaze, do
not inhale.
Co(NO3)2.6H2O, cobaltous nitrate, cobalt nitrate hexahydrate, red, deliquescent,
Cobalt (II) nitrate monoclinic crystals, m.p. 50o to 60oC,
in dyes and inks.
CuCO3, CuCO3.Cu(OH)2.H2O, basic copper carbonate, (azurite, malachite), cupric
Copper (II)
carbonate carbonate, green precipitate, bremen blue, green verditer, craft green glaze,
verdigris on copper exposed to atmosphere.
Copper (II) CuCl2, cupric chloride, brown-yellow powder, covalent, green fireworks, copper
chloride (II) chloride dihydrate CuCl2.2H2O.
Cu(NO3)2.3H2O, copper nitrate crystals, blue solid, deliquescent, anhydrous form

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 7 of 21

Copper (II) nitrate probably covalent.

Cu2O, cuprous oxide, red copper oxide, ruby copper, cuprite, for craft, red solid,
Copper (I) oxide
insoluble, (used to make red glass).
CuO, black copper oxide, cupric oxide, melconite, tenorite, black solid, soluble in
Copper (II) oxide
dilute acids, (used in craft, deep blue colour in glass).
CuSO4.5H2O, copper (II) sulfate(VI)-5-water, cupric sulfate, blue, triclinic crystals,
efflorescent in dry air, hold on to water of crystallization in hot dry air but
Copper (II) anhydrous at 250oC, bluestone, blue vitriol, blue copperas, (chalcanthite mineral,
sulfate CuSO4.5H2O has sweet metallic taste and is slightly poisonous), (Bordeaux
mixture is copper sulfate and lime used as a fungicide), wood preservative, "Root
Eater", "Bluestone" algicide, (algaecide)
Copper CU2Fe(CN)6, Hatchett's Brown dye, Traube's colloidal solution, (used to remove
ferrocyanide caesium and strontium from radioactive waste).
Devarda's alloy powder, 50% Cu, 45% Al, 5% Zn, tests for NO -, reaction with NaOH strongly
3
exothermic.
1,6- NH2(CH2)6,NH2, ( preferred name: hexamethylenediamine, HMDA, 5% solution
Diaminohexane in water), ethylenediamine, hexamethylene diamine, hexane-1, 6-diamine, store in
(COR 2280) refrigerator, strongly alkaline, (use < 25 mL), used to make nylon.
C6H4Cl2, m.p. 53oC, crystalline, p-dichlorobenzene, paradichlorobenzene, 1,4-
1,4- dichlorobenzol, "dichlorobenzene", deodorizer, solid blocks deodorant in male
Dichlorobenzene toilets, (Substitute hexadecan-1-ol or octadecan-1-ol for melting point curve
experiments.), (Use ethanol to prepare dilute solutions).
CH2Cl2, methylene chloride, methylene dichloride, Freon 30, colourless liquid, b.p.
o
Dichloromethane 41 C, (refrigerant, degreasing, cleaning fluid, paint remover, solvent), ozone-
depleting chemical so use very small amounts, (Use ethanol as solvent for dilute
solutions).
Disodium Na2HPO4.12H2O, disodium orthophosphate, sodium phosphate dibasic, sodium
hydrogen phosphate dodecahydrate, white monoclinic or rhombic crystals or granules, r.d.
orthophosphate
1.5, m.p. 34oC to 35oC, easily loses H2O, E339 (II).
(V)
(HOOCCH2)2N(CH2)2N(CH2COOH)2, ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid,
EDTA sequestering agent for metal ions, Mg2+, Ca2+
Complexing agent for most metal ions, especially Ca and Mg. Water softening and
remove scale from kettles, medical removal of excess metallic ions.
EDTA disodium (HOOCCH2)2N(CH2)2N(CH2COONa)2.2H2O, (0.1 M, solution + sodium azide).
salt
C2H5OH, ethyl alcohol, clear, colourless, mobile liquid, volatile, inflammable,
distinct odour, miscible with water and most organic solvents, rectified spirit, grain
Ethanol, 95% alcohol, spirit of wine, constant boiling mixture = 95.6% ethanol and 4.4% water,
b.p. -78.3oC, absolute alcohol = 100% ethanol, r.d. 0.79 gm cm -3, b.p. 78.5oC,
absorbs moisture from air.
Ethanediol

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 8 of 21

Ethanediol, CH2OH.CH2OH, 1,2-dihydroxyethane, ethylene glycol, glycol, b.p.

197.5oCl, ethane-1,2 diol, car radiator antifreeze, paint and plastic solvent.
CH3COOC2H5, colour less liquid, fruity odour, b.p. 77oC, ethyl ethanoate,
Ethyl acetate
(medicine, lacquer solvent).
HCHO, CH2O (aq), gas readily soluble in water, methanal, (+10% methanol),
formalin: 40% methanal solution, (disinfectant, plastics), Do not mix with HCl
because carcinogenic bis(chloromethyl) ether may form, so do not dispose
formaldehyde and HCl in the same sink. Formaldehyde (methanal) is highly
poisonous and probably carcinogenic and should be handled with extreme care.
Formaldehyde is transported and stored as a concentrated aqueous solution called
formalin. When a bottle of formaldehyde is opened, a large amount of gas may be
Formaldehyde released. Do not inhale the formaldehyde gas. Do experiments with concentrated
solution formaldehyde solutions in a fume cupboard. However, dilute formaldehyde
solutions produce little formaldehyde and can be safely handled in the open
laboratory. Preserve biological specimens in a solution of 50% ethanol and 50%
water, instead of formaldehyde solution. Do not mix hydrochloric acid and
formaldehyde solution because highly carcinogenic bis(chloromethyl) ether may
form. Do not store bottles of hydrochloric acid near formaldehyde because the
reaction might occur in the air. Do not dispose of formaldehyde solutions and
hydrochloric acid in the same sink system.
HCOOH, methanoic acid, conc. 46 M, hydrogen carboxylic acid, in ants and
stinging nettles, most simple carboxylic acid,
Formic acid is highly poisonous and should be treated with care. It is highly volatile
and the vapour should not be inhaled. Formic acid is the only simple aliphatic
Formic acid carboxylic acid to possess reducing properties because of the presence of a -CHO
component in the molecular structure. So formic acid is both an aldehyde and a
carboxylic acid.
HCOOH + H2O <--> H3O+ + HCOO-, Ka = 1.8 X 10-4.
C6H12O6, D(-), fructose, laevulose, fruit sugar, pure honey, (D form, but
Fructose
laevorotatory, hence "L-fructose").
Fuchsine magenta dye, rosaniline hydrochloride, C20H19N3HCl, triphenylmethane dyestuff,
dark green crystals in water form purple-red solution, (the colour of flowers of
Fuchsia, Onagraceae), disinfectant for skin infections, stain bacteria (not
"fuchsin"), basic fuchsine has variable contents including rosaniline and similar
compounds, used in Schiff reagent test for aldehydes, acid fuchsine is mixture of
basic fuchsine + sulfonic groups to decolorize it.
C6H12O6, (+), glucose, D(-), glucose, anhydrous, blood sugar, glucose, (for babies),
Glucose
dextrose.
CH2OH.CHOH.CH2OH, glycerin, clear, viscous, odourless fluid, propane-123-
Glycerol triol, glycerine, propane-1, 2, 3-triol, glycerin jelly, b.p. 290oC and decomposes,
r.d. 1.26, absorbs water from air, miscible, soluble in water and alcohol, (in
cosmetics, toothpaste, shampoo, loosens stains).

HCl, spirits of salts, muriatic acid, clear, colourless, fuming liquid, conc. 12 M, r.d.
1.18 gm cm-3, 12 mol dm-3, E507, dilute HCl 6 M, (solution of hydrogen chloride

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 9 of 21

gas), distinct odour, (aqua regia: 3 vols concentrated HCl + 1 vol concentrated
HNO3). Hydrochloric acid, HCl (aq). Concentrated hydrochloric acid releases
hydrogen chloride gas if open to the atmosphere. This gas is highly irritant to the
lungs and causes coughing. Use the concentrated gas in a fume cupboard to avoid
inhalation. If a container of the concentrated acid is broken outside a fume
cupboard, evacuate the area until the fumes have dissipated. Small amounts of
hydrogen chloride gas are relatively harmless and a <0.1 M dilute acid has low
toxicity. The human stomach forms hydrochloric acid as part of the digestive
Hydrochloric acid process. Concentrated hydrochloric acid is extremely damaging to the eyes. Wear a
face shield when doing any pouring experiments that might result in splashing of
the liquid. Avoid skin contact with hydrochloric acid. Wash any area of the body
that has been in contact with hydrochloric acid with copious amounts of water.
Dilution of hydrochloric acid with water does releases some heat, but not as much
as sulfuric acid. Always dilute by adding acid to water, not water to acid. Do not
mix hydrochloric acid with formaldehyde solution because highly carcinogenic bis
(chloromethyl) ether may form. Do not store bottles of hydrochloric acid near
formaldehyde because the reaction might occur in the air. Do not dispose of
formaldehyde solutions and hydrochloric acid in the same sink system.
H2O2, "peroxide", bleach, antiseptic, wastewater treatment for BOD, (biological
oxygen demand)
Hydrogen peroxide concentration 30% solution is not permitted in schools. Contact
with the eyes can cause serious long-term damage. Corrosive solution can cause
skin burns. Decomposition may cause oxygen pressure build-up. Tightly sealed
Hydrogen bottles of hydrogen peroxide may explode due to a build up of pressure of oxygen
peroxide gas. Forms potentially explosive compounds with ketones (acetone), alcohols
(ethanol), esters, glycerine (glycerol), aniline, triethylamine and sodium carbonate.
Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with powdered Mg, Zn or Al. A 3% solution is
unstable. It decomposes slowly in storage to yield water and oxygen. Can
decompose rapidly in the presence of catalysts. Difficult to transport because of
regulations governing is transport by air, sea and land.
Iron (II) Fe(NH4SO4), 2.6H2O, Mohr's salt, ferrous ammonium sulfate, ammonium iron (II)
ammonium sulfate, ammonium ferrous sulfate, 0.1 M solutions used to test cations, iron (II)
sulfate (V) compounds can be oxidized by air, but acidified solutions are stable.
Iron (II) sulfate-7- FeSO4.7H2O, iron sulfate, hydrated ferrous sulfate, melanterite mineral, green
water vitriol, copperas, wood preservative, inks.
FeCl3, ferric chloride anhydrous, iron chloride, iron trichloride, flores martis, black-
brown, catalyst, 20% solution used for printed circuit board etchant but use eye
Iron (III) chloride
protection and gloves. FeCl3.6H2O, iron (III) chloride hexahydrate, 0.1 M
electrochemistry solution harmless.
Fe2O3, ferric oxide, Fe2O3.3H2O, ferric sesquioxide, rust, red iron oxide, red ferric
Iron (III) oxide oxide, ferric oxide red, red iron oxide, haematite, magnetite, brown-red powder,
yellow / brown pigment, red ochre, burnt ore, burnt ochre, jewellers rouge polish,
Venetian red, crocus powder, source of iron, mixed with red clay for liver function.

Lead (II) Pb(CH3COO)2.3H2O, lead (II) acetate, lead acetate, m.p. 75oC, sugar of lead, white
ethanoate
to colourless, monoclinic crystals or granules, slowly efflorescent, absorbs CO2

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 10 of 21

from air and becomes insoluble, test paper for H2S.

Lead (II) PbCO3, cerussite, basic lead carbonate, (PbCO3 + Pb(OH)2), white lead, (basic lead
carbonate carbonate), white lead flux, paint pigment.
Pb(NO3)2, lead nitrate, white to colourless, translucent cubic or monoclinic
crystals, decomposes at 470oC, only common soluble lead compound, forms
Lead (II) nitrate explosive mixture with combustible materials, e.g. S, P, metal powders, heated
solid forms highly toxic nitrogen dioxide, test for anions: forms bright yellow
precipitate of lead iodide with sodium or potassium iodide.
PbO, yellow lead oxide, litharge, flux, lead monoxide, lead protoxide, massicott,
Lead (II) oxide,
yellow amorphous powder, fused and crystalline form called litharge used as
mono
pigment in glass and enamels.
PbO2, lead dioxide, car battery plates, lead-acid accumulator, (+ve accumulator
Lead (IV) oxide
electrode).
Pb3O4, (2PbO.PbO2), dilead (II) lead (IV) oxide, lead tetroxide, trileadtetroxide,
Lead (II/IV) triplumbic tetroxide, massicot, red lead, minium, red lead oxide, (anticorrosive
oxide paint pigment, flux, for craft) Reacts violently with Al and Mg powders and some
organic materials. Do not heat on a charcoal block. Old paints may contain > 30%
lead but nowadays may contain < 1% lead.
3MgCO3.Mg(OH)2.3H2O, magnesium carbonate basic, light powder, magnesite,
Magnesium (carbonate of magnesia for craft), [food additive E504, drying agent (desiccant) and
carbonate anti-caking agent in table salt], (a mild laxative and Antacid medicine), heat
resistant products, dolomite MgCO3.CaCO3.
MgCl2, magnesium chloride anhydrous, magnesium dichloride, Magnesium
Magnesium
chloride hexahydrate, MgCl2.6H2O, magnesium chloride crystals, (hygroscopic),
chloride
E511, electrolysed to form magnesium metal.
Magnesium Mg(OH)2, Harmful, irritates eyes and skin, brucite, weak solubility so weak base,
hydroxide absorbs carbon dioxide from the air in presence of water, (hydrated form called
milk of magnesia, a laxative and Antacid medicine), E528.
Magnesium Mg(NO3)2.6H2O, magnesium nitrate hexahydrate, AAS Solution, oxidizing (OXD
nitrate 1474), explosive mixtures with organic compounds and combustible materials.
Magnesium oxide MgO, magnesium oxide, light powder, magnesite, magnesia, native magnesia,
periclase (Antacid medicine), E530, thermoluminescent
MgSO4.7H2O, hydrated magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, Epsom salts, epsomite,
kieserite, colourless to white, odourless, rhombic crystals or granules, loses water
Magnesium of crystallization to dry air and possibly microwaves and even sound waves to form
sulfate green powder hexahydrate MgSO4.6H2O, anhydrous at 250oC, bitter salt, (laxative
medicine, unshrinking woollen clothing, fire-proofing), crystal gardens
experiments, test for Ba and Sn cations.
MnO2, manganese dioxide, manganese black, in pyrolusite, (depolarizer in dry
Manganese (IV) cells, glass, catalyst, oxidizing agent). Use as catalyst for decomposition of
oxide hydrogen peroxide. Do NOT use for thermal decomposition of potassium chlorate.
Hydrated manganese oxide in some medicines for schizophrenics and diabetics.

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 11 of 21

Mercury (I) Hg2Cl2, calomel, mercury (I) chloride, horn quicksilver, Hg2Cl2, (mercurous
chloride
chloride, HgCl), white crystals, r.d. 7.15, sublimes at 400oC, (reference electrode in
calomel electric cells, mercury electrode in potassium chloride solution + calomel),
Calomel is found with cinnabar.
Mercury (I) Forms explosive mixtures with combustible materials and organic compounds. The
nitrate pure chemical has low toxicity if ingested. Used in redox reactions and metal
displacement reactions. Millon's reagent contains mercury (I) nitrate, mercurous
nitrate, in nitrous acid. Mercury (I) nitrate was formerly used in the manufacture of
felt hats, caused tremors in the workers and leading to the term "mad as a hatter", a
character in "Alice in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll.
Mercury (II) Highly toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin, cumulative poison. Use eye
nitrate and skin protection when splashes can occur.
Forms explosive mixtures with combustible materials and organic compounds. Do
not heat the solid because mercury vapour and nitrogen dioxide forms. Do not add
ethanol to solutions of mercury (II) nitrate in nitric acid because highly-explosive
mercury fulminate forms. Do not use for redox reactions. Use < 5 mL of 0.1 M per
activity.
Mercury (II) HgCl2, mercuric chloride, mercury bichloride, mercury sublimate, corrosive
chloride sublimate, white crystalline solid, colourless, odourless, rhombic crystals or
granules, r.d. 5.4, m.p. 277oC, solution is poisonous and very dangerous because
the solution looks like water, should NOT be in the school laboratory, formerly
used to treat syphilis
Mercury (II) HG(CNO),2.1/2H2O, in cartridge detonators and percussion caps.
fulminate
Mercury (II) HgO, mercuric oxide, yellow to orange, dense, odourless powder, r.d. 11.14,
oxide decomposed by light, yellow oxide of mercury or red oxide of mercury, store in
dark bottles, do not heat to form oxygen gas because highly toxic mercury vapour
forms. Mixture with powdered sulfur is explosive.
Methanol CH3OH, methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, clear liquid, distinct odour, volatile,
flammable, poisonous, methanol and illegal home-made alcoholic beverages may
cause blindness. Use < 5 mL of 0.1 M per activity or use in a fume cupboard.
Substitute ethanol or methylated spirits as alternative solvent.
2-methoxyethanol Methyl cellosolve, ethylene glycolmonomethyl ether, Use in a fume cupboard o use
<50 mL or g in a well-ventilated area. May cause long-term nerve damage. May be
teratogenic.

C2H5OH, ( 95% CH3CH2OH, 5% CH3OH), methylated ethanol, "spirits",

methylated spirits sold retail in Australia as 95% ethanol, UN 1170, duplicator
fluid / spirit, Fordigraph spirit duplicator fluid, spirit vini meth, (90% ethanol + 5%
v/v methanol, wood alcohol + 5% water), denatured alcohol, denatured spirits, (+
2% of methyl alcohol, pyridine, + other coal-tar unpalatable chemicals, (in UK
ethanol + 9.5% methanol + 0.5% pyridine and a blue dye). The additional
substances "denature" the ethanol so it cannot be consumed. Use in illegal home-
made alcoholic beverages may cause blindness. If swallowed do NOT induce
vomiting because it may enter the lungs. Methylated spirit is highly flammable and
must not be used near naked flames, e.g. boiled in a beaker set on wire gauze over a
Methylated spirit Bunsen burner to extract chlorophyll from leaves. Do not heat methylated spirit

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 12 of 21

Methylated spirits over a Bunsen burner, even in a closed container such as a flask with a reflux
condenser because the flask may crack. Methylated spirit burns with a nearly
colourless flame so if there is a fire, be careful of the invisible flames. Use a carbon
dioxide fire extinguisher and fire blankets to smother the flames. Instead, use a
water bath to heat methylated spirit in a flask. Even if the flask cracks, a mixture of
water and methylated spirit is much less flammable than pure methylated spirit.
Repeated contact of the skin with methylated spirit can cause dermatitis so wear
rubber gloves if using methylated spirit as a solvent for cleaning. Do not mix
methylated spirit with an oxidizing acid, e.g. concentrated nitric acid, because a
vigorous reaction or explosion may occur. Use methylated spirit as a cheap low
toxicity solvent for solvent extraction. Observe the rapid changes in colour during
the dissolution of plant pigments in methylated spirit
Monosodium C5H8NNaO4.H2O, HOOCCH(NH2),CH2CH2COONa, sodium hydrogen glutamate,
glutamate, MSG white crystals, soluble in water, flavour enhancer especially for Chinese food but
some people allergic, formerly from seaweed Laminaria japonica.
Nessler's reagent potassium tetraiodomercurate, not permitted in some school systems because it
contains mercury, Nessler's solution (Julius Nessler 1827-1905) is a solution of
mercury (II) iodide in potassium iodide made alkaline with sodium hydroxide or
potassium hydroxide, K2HgI4, in caustic soda solution. Add reagent to original
solution. A brown colour or precipitate indicates the presence of ammonium ion.
The test is very sensitive. A trace of ammonia give a yellow colour but larger
amounts of ammonia give a brown colour or precipitate. The test solution must
contain no NH4+ added during analysis.
C10H14N2, pyridine alkaloid, colourless, poisonous and addictive, in tobacco
Nicotine
leaves.
Nitrobenzene C6H5NO2, mononitrobenzene, pale yellow, oily liquid, unpleasant almond odour,
poisonous, r.d. 1.2, b.p. 211oC.
Highly toxic by all routes of exposure, possibly carcinogenic. Avoid inhaling
vapour and skin contact so use small quantities < 25 mL or g in a well-ventilated
area. May be explosive when heated. A solution / mixture < 0.1% is not hazardous.
C17H33COOH, CH3(CH2)7CHCH(CH2)7COOH, octadec-8-enoic acid, colourless
Oleic acid
viscous liquid, red oil, m.p. 14oC.
(COOH)2.2H2O, ethanedioic acid-2-water, acid of sugar, colourless, white,
Oxalic acid odourless, monoclinic crystals or granules, r.d. 1.62, m.p. 101oC - 102oC, sublimes
easily above 100oC, decomposed by heat, (in rhubarb and many plants).
Pentan-1-ol CH3(CH2)3CH2OH, n-pentyl alcohol, n-amyl alcohol.
Phosphorus P4O10, phosphorus (V) oxide, white powder, hexagonal crystals, deliquescent,
pentoxide thermoluminescent. Reacts violently with water to form phosphoric acid, liberating
a large amount of heat, reacts violently with iodides. With sodium and potassium
metals ignition on contact. With formic acid forms highly toxic carbon monoxide
gas.. Used as a dehydrating agent. The crust on the surface of old samples is mostly
phosphoric acid, but remove it before using the phosphorus pentoxide beneath.

H3PO4, orthophosphoric acid, phosphoric (V) acid, orthophosphoric acid, as

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 13 of 21

solution is colourless, odourless liquid, conc. 14.7.M, r.d. 1.71 to 1.75, miscible
Phosphoric acid with water and ethanol, "Kill-rust", E33, weak acid, or white rhombic solid, 85%
W /W, 90% W / W.
KBr, potassium bromide, colourless, white, cubic crystals or granules, r.d. 2.75,
Potassium
bromide m.p. 730oC, (photography, formerly a sedative), used to prepare bromine water, For
0.1 M solution., 12 g in 1 L water
K2CO3 anhydrous, "potash", (pearl-ash, commercial potassium carbonate), salt of
tartar, white, odourless granules, anhydrous potassium carbonate, r.d. 2.29, m.p.
Potassium
carbonate 891oC, (anhydrous is hygroscopic, cakes in moist air), E501, strong alkaline
solution, For 0.1 M solution., 13.8 g in water, (soap-making, glass-making,
sourdough)
KClO3, potassium chlorate (V) potassium perchlorate, Berthollet's salt, colourless,
Potassium white, odourless, monoclinic crystals, r.d. 2.32, m.p. 368oC then decomposes,
chlorate explodes in contact with sulfur compounds, (in explosives, fireworks and weed
killers), Do not use potassium chlorate to prepare oxygen with manganese dioxide
catalyst.
KCl, sylvite, (sylvine), mineral, muriate of potash fertilizer, white, odourless, cubic
Potassium
crystals or powder, slightly hygroscopic, diet salt substitute, E508, extracted from
chloride
waters of Dead Sea, sold as "lite salt"
K2CrO4, lemon-yellow crystals, m.p. 975oC, alkaline aqueous solution. Potassium
chromate, as with other chromium (VI) salts, may be carcinogenic so handle it with
care. However, when used in dilute solution, near neutral pH, it is relatively safe.
When mixed with acid, chromate ions, CrO42-, first form dichromate ions, Cr 2O72-,
then chromic acid, H2CrO4. Solutions containing chromic acid are powerfully
Potassium
oxidizing and highly corrosive. Do not use the cleaning mixture called “chromic
chromate
acid”, prepared by dissolving a metal chromate or dichromate in concentrated
sulfuric acid. This cleaning mixture is not permitted in schools because it is
dangerously corrosive to skin and eyes and is probably no more effective as a
cleaning agent than strong detergent solutions or a suitable solvent. Reactions of
potassium chromate and dichromate with sulfur, carbon, magnesium, aluminium
and phosphorus are dangerous and are not permitted in schools.
K2Cr2O7, potassium bichromate, red prussiate of potash, ferro prussiate, bichrome,
orange to red, odourless, monoclinic crystals or granules, r.d. 2.69, m.p. 398oC,
strong oxidizing agent, toxic and fire risk from oxidation, formerly used mixed with
sulfuric acid to to clean laboratory glassware but nowadays this procedure not
Potassium permitted in schools. Oxidation reactions involve the reduction of solutions of
dichromate chromate or dichromate ions that cause colour changes from yellow or orange to
pale green or colourless solutions. The reactions with the formation of an insoluble
metal chromate give brightly coloured precipitates. Do not attempt to isolate these
precipitates because they are carcinogenic. Prepare these precipitates in the smallest
quantities that allow them to be seen. Do not use potassium dichromate solution to
colour water for demonstrations. Used in machines to breath test for alcohol.
K3Fe(CN)6.3H2O, potassium hexacyano ferrate (III), potassium ferric cyanide,
ruby red, monoclinic crystals, heat decomposes then melts, r.d. 1.89, case-
Potassium hardening agent, forms good crystals, used in redox experiments, Prussian blue dye,

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 14 of 21

ferricyanide chemical analysis uses characteristic colour reactions, heating with concentrated
sulfuric acid forms carbon monoxide gas, ( in dyeing, etching blueprint paper,
fertilizer), Highly toxic, boiling with dilute acids forms cyanide gas, Highly toxic,
with concentrated ammonia solution may explode.
K4Fe(CN)6.3H2O, potassium hexacyanoferrate (II)-3-water, coordination
compound, yellow prussiate of soda, yellow prussiate of potash, prussiate of
potassium, yellow monoclinic crystals or powder, r.d. 1.85, case hardening agent,
Potassium used to detect Fe3+ ions, efflorescent, anhydrous at 100oC, Environmental danger,
ferrocyanide direct heating of the solid forms cyanogen gas, Highly toxic, heating with
concentrated sulfuric acid forms carbon monoxide gas, Highly toxic, boiling with
dilute acids forms cyanide gas, Highly toxic, Mixtures with nitrite salts are
explosive.
KOH, "caustic potash", lye, potassa, white pellets, KOH "sticks" or rods in water,
lumps, flakes, sticks, very deliquescent, absorbs CO2 and SO2 from air better than
sodium hydroxide because more soluble, used to prepare soft soap and alkaline
storage cells, heat from dissolving in water, r.d. 2.044, m.p. 380oC, E525,
potassium lye, damages eyes and body tissues.
KOH, solid, flake, pellets, 1 M analytical reagent, caustic potash, Potassium
hydroxide, as a solid or concentrated solution is extremely corrosive to the skin and
eyes. Always wear safety glasses when handling potassium hydroxide, even with
Potassium dilute concentrations. If potassium hydroxide enters the eye, rinse the eye instantly
hydroxide with water. Solutions of potassium hydroxide on the skin feel soapy because fats in
the skin are broken down to form anions of fatty acids, e.g. stearate, palmitate and
oleate, that give the solution a slippery feel. When potassium hydroxide dissolves in
water, a large amount of heat is released, sometimes causing the solution to boil
violently if it has not been stirred. So, always stir solutions in which potassium
hydroxide is dissolving to dissipate heat and to provide a uniform concentration
throughout the solution. Potassium hydroxide solutions boil at a higher temperature
than pure water. Hygroscopic so keep in sealed plastic container, More corrosive to
eyes than acids,
KHCO3, potassium bicarbonate, (impure potassium bicarbonate "American
Potassium
hydrogen saleratus"), colourless, odourless, white granules, r.d. 2.17, (used in buffers, baking
carbonate powder, aerated waters, antacid medicines, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, some
detergents, laboratory reagent), occurs as calcinite.
Potassium K2HPO4, di-potassium hydrogen phosphate (V), di-potassium monohydrogen
hydrogen phosphate, di-potassium hydrogen orthophosphate, food additive, buffering agent,
phosphate culture nutrient
HOOC(CHOH)2COOK, (KHC4H4O7), cream of tartar, tartar, (beeswing), acid
Potassium potassium tartrate, potassium bitartrate, white crystalline acid salt, purified form of
hydrogen tartrate brown crystals argol, (used in baking powder, from deposits in wine vats, the
"crust" in crusted port that has finally fermented in the bottle).
KIO3, potassium iodate, white, monoclinic crystals or granules, slightly
Potassium iodate deliquescent, r.d. 3.89, m.p. 560oC, oxidizing agent, (ingredient of iodized "table
(V) salt", analytical reagent), store out of light, ( potassium iodate is potassium salt of
iodic acid), May ignite with combustibles or organic compounds and produce toxic
fumes. Violent reaction with aluminium, magnesium, carbon, sulfur, phosphorus.

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 15 of 21

Violent reaction with sodium bisulfite if water added. Forms toxic fumes with
concentrated sulfuric acid.
KI, colourless solution, white crystals or granules, r.d. 3.12, m.p. 698oC, slightly
deliquescent in moist air, bitter taste, can be separated form potassium iodate by
fractional crystallization, becomes yellow when iodine lost to air, (chemical
analysis, photography, additive to prepare iodized "table salt" to iodine deficiency,
Potassium iodide e.g. goitre), (in tincture of iodine medicine, solvent for iodine to form the brown
triiodide ion I3-, KI3 (aq), used as a test for starch). Detects presence of Pb2+ ions
when yellow precipitate of lead iodide forms. If KI solutions become yellow from
iodine formation add sodium hydrogen sulfite solution to make solution colourless
again.
Potassium K2O, "potash", K2O in fertilizer.
monoxide
KMnO4, potassium manganate (VII) (OXD 1490), Condy’s crystals, 0.2 M, 0.02
M, analytical reagent, purple-red crystals, dark purple, bronze with metallic sheen,
odourless, rhombic crystals, r.d. 2.7, heat decomposes, distinct sweet bitter taste,
common strong oxidizing agent and disinfectant, chemistry analytical reagent,
MnO4- ion. Potassium permanganate is a powerful oxidizing agent which forms
dangerously combustible or even explosive mixtures with oxidizable materials or
combustible materials: red phosphorus, cyanides, thiosulfates acetates, sugar,
charcoal, sulfur, phosphorus, ammonium salts, active metal powders, organic
compounds. The solid is also spontaneously flammable on contact with glycerine,
ethylene glycol and other organic compounds. It forms violently explosive
manganese heptoxide on mixing with concentrated sulfuric acid. Oxygen gas is
Potassium formed on heating the solid, but toxic fine particles of manganese oxides are
permanganate produced simultaneously; if the reaction is carried out in a test tube, place a plug of
glass wool in the end of the tube to trap particles. Do not use sulfuric acid for
drying oxygen gas from decomposition of potassium permanganate, since the acid
could accidentally mix with the salt and react explosively. For preparing oxygen
gas, it is safer to use hydrogen peroxide and potassium permanganate, or hydrogen
peroxide with manganese dioxide catalyst. If potassium permanganate is used for
preparation of chlorine gas by reaction with hydrochloric acid, be sure that the solid
is covered with a layer of water and that hydrochloric acid is used, NOT sulfuric
acid. Acidified solutions are used as an oxidant in organic chemistry for the
oxidation of aldehydes or alcohols. Neutral solutions are used to distinguish
between alkanes and alkenes. Dilute aqueous solutions of potassium permanganate
are relatively harmless and have been used medicinally for mouth-washes and
bactericides.

KNO3, "saltpetre", "saltpeter", (occurs as nitre, niter, Bengali saltpetre), colourless,

odourless, trigonal or rhombic crystals or white granules, r.d. 2.11, m.p. 333 oC,
Preservative E252, strong oxidizing agent that decomposes at 400oC to lose O2,
Potassium nitrate
(nitrate of potash fertilizer, fireworks, food preservative, explosives, e.g.
gunpowder), E252. Potassium nitrate is a powerful oxidizing agent and forms
explosive mixtures with most combustible materials. Potassium nitrate has
relatively low toxicity, and can be safely used in aqueous solution. Do not mix
potassium nitrate with charcoal, sulfur, red phosphorus or active metals, e.g. Na,

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 16 of 21

powdered Al, Mg, cyanides, sulfides, thiosulfates, ammonium salts, acetates,

household sugar or combustible material because these mixtures may be are
explosive. The demonstration of explosives is not permitted in schools. If testing
production of oxygen from heated solid and lighted splint is accidentally dropped
into molten salt, explosion may occur. Gunpowder, (black powder, black
gunpowder), a mixture of of potassium nitrate, charcoal and sulfur, the explosive
propellant formerly used in forearms now superseded for modern firearms by by
smokeless powder, a mixture of potassium salts.
KNO2, white to yellow deliquescent solid, m.p. 440oC, explodes above 600oC,
Potassium nitrite used to detect presence of amino groups inorganic compounds, reacts with acids to
form toxic nitrogen dioxide gas that reacts with oxygen in the air to form highly
toxic nitrogen dioxide gas.
KNaC4H4O6.4H2O, double salt sodium potassium tartrate, potassium sodium
Potassium sodium
tartrate-4-water tartrate, potassium sodium 2, 3-dihydroxybutanedioate, Rochelle salt, Seignette's
salt, Seidlitz powder, saline cooling taste, piezoelectric.
K2SO4, sulfate of potash fertilizer, E515, white crystalline powder, prepared with
Potassium sulfate potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide with sulfuric acid, fertilizer as source
of potassium iron instead of KCl for chlorine-sensitive plants.
K2S, liver of sulfur, sulfurated potash, red-yellow to brown-red, deliquescent,
Potassium sulfide
analytical reagent and epilatory, (depilatory), dusts may explode.
Potassium KCNS, colourless prisms, r.d. 1.89, m.p. about 173oC, deliquescent
thiocyanate
C6H4(OH)2, crystals, resorcin, benzene-1-3-diol, 1, 3 benzenediol, (turns red in
Resorcinol
light), (a dihydroxy phenol), (antiseptic).
HOC6H4COOH, 1-hydroxybenzoic acid, crystals, used to make aspirin,
Salicyclic acid
acetylsalicylic acid, an antithrombic, anti-platelet and pain relieving medicine.
Schiff reagent Mixture of fuchsine and sodium bisulfite or sulfurous acid to decolorize it that
forms red-violet (magenta-purple) colour in unknown solution as test for aldehydes,
called "Schiff's test".
SiO2, silicon (IV) oxide, silicon oxide, silicon dioxide, E551, quartz sand, (Silica
gel desiccant is hygroscopic amorphous hydrated silica + CoCl2, self-indicating
Silica
moisture test, e.g. "Tell-Tale"), powder used a non-reactive bulking material in
medical tablets.
Silver bromide silver (I) bromide, Ag Br, yellow solid, dissolves in concentrated ammonia
solution, (photography emulsions).
silver (I) chloride, AgCl, white solid, cerargyrite, horn silver, kerargyrite, occurs in
Silver chloride silver veins, dissolves in ammonia solution, (photography emulsions, pottery
glaze), expensive!
Silver iodide silver (I) iodide, AgI, not dissolve in ammonia solution, yellow solid, crystals
similar to ice so used in cloud seeding.
AgNO3, large, odourless, transparent, rhombic crystals or small white crystals,
lunar caustic sticks for cauterizing, r.d. 4.35, m.p. 212oC, water-soluble, becomes
dark with organic matter, test for halogens, store in dark-coloured dropping bottle

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 17 of 21

in a cool dark place. Use Tollen's reagent to demonstrate the reduction of silver
nitrate solution by formic acid to form a mirror on the inside of the test-tube.
Silver nitrate Forms explosive mixtures with combustibles, e.g. sulfur, phosphorus, ethanol,
metal powders. Used in redox reactions, metal displacement reactions, testing for
chloride ions, preparation of Tollen's reagent.
Tests for CO2, (if off-white: active, if violet: exhausted), For anaesthetics, the pH
indicator ethyl violet is added to tell whether the soda lime can still absorb carbon
Soda lime dioxide. The critical pH is 10.3. It turns from colourless to violet. It is a mixture of
sodium hydroxide and calcium hydroxide prepared by dissolving calcium oxide
with sodium hydroxide solution.
Sodium benzoate C6H5COONa, sodium benzenecarboxylate, food preservative against yeast and
bacteria but may cause cirrhosis, damage DNA and and increase ageing, effective
pH 2.5 to 4.2, dyes, antiseptic.
Sodium bisulfite Na2S2O5, crystals, sodium metabisulfite, sodium pyrosulfite, beer-making and
wine-making kits for the home.
Na2CO3.10H2O sodium carbonate decahydrate, washing soda, sodium carbonate
crystals, soda crystals, soda ash, sal soda, crystal carbonate, black ash, trona, E500
white, odourless powder, hygroscopic, soluble in water to form alkaline solution,
Sodium carbonate not decomposed by heat, (also anhydrous sodium carbonate, soda ash anhydrous,
Na2CO3, soda ash is commercial sodium carbonate), r.d. 2.53, m.p. 851 oC , glass
production, softens "hard" water.
Sodium chlorate NaClO3, white solid, crystalline, bleach, weed killer, Oxidizing (OXD 1495),
Forms violently explosive mixtures with combustibles, organic compounds,
ammonium compounds, sulfur, sulfides and finely divided metals, that may
detonate as a result of friction, contact with strong acids by ignition. Sodium
chlorate with concentrated sulfuric acid forms chlorine dioxide gas, unstable. Wood
soaked in sodium chlorate become explosive.
Sodium chloride NaCl, white, cubic crystals, (colourless if large), or granules, r.d. 2.17, m.p. 804oC,
common salt, table salt, sodium chloride technical grade, rock salt, halite mineral,
sea salt, brine, salt chlorinating of swimming pools, animals lick natural salt or
artificial blocks of salt from a salt lick, not hygroscopic if pure, for flavouring and
food preservative, essential in diet, high intake cause of high blood pressure, stroke,
heart disease but supplement needed after excessive dehydration and sweating, for
chemistry experiments use "uniodised" table salt
Na3C6H5O7.2H2O, basic, crystalline, trisodium citrate, trisodium-2-
Sodium citrate
hydroxypropane-1, 2, 3-tricarboxy, (food buffer), E331.
Sodium NaH2PO4, sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate, monosodium orthophosphate, also
dihydrogen monohydrate NaH2PO4.H2O and dihydrate NaH2PO4.2H2O, white, odourless,
phosphate (V)
rhombic crystals, insoluble in alcohol, slightly deliquescent, anhydrous at 100 oC, in
baking powder, food additive, buffers, E339.

NaHCO3, sodium bicarbonate, baking soda, bicarbonate of soda, bicarb, bicarb

soda, soda, carb soda, soda lye, (saleratus, "aerated salt", "Dwight's saleratus"),
white, odourless monoclinic crystals or granules, alkaline salt, r.d. 2.16 - 2.22,

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 18 of 21

(occurs naturally in soda lakes, soda beds), decomposes to lose CO2, forms sodium
carbonate above 50oC, (penetrates stains and dissolves grease), (leavening agent
Sodium hydrogen used in: antacids, baking powders, bath salts, burn treatment, cow and cattle feed,
carbonate degreasers, denture cleaning, deodorizers, fire extinguishers, general cleaners,
general neutralizers, kitchen and bathroom cleaners, paint stripping, self-raising
flour, soils contaminated with PCBs, toothpaste).
Sodium hydrogen anhydrous, NaHSO4, nitre cake, sodium bisulfate, swimming pool acid, (COR
sulfate 1821), Sodium hydrogen sulfate monohydrate, NaHSO4.H2O, deliquescent.
Sodium hydrogen NaHSO3, sodium bisulfite, deliquescent, white solid but dissolves in water to form
sulfite yellow solution, with heat decomposed to form sodium sulfate, sulfur dioxide and
sulfur so is used to sterilize wine casks and other containers in brewing industry. If
KI solutions become yellow from iodine formation, add sodium hydrogen sulfite
solution to make solution colourless again.
NaOH, solid, white rods, pellets, pearl, flakes, lumps, granules, very hygroscopic
and absorbs CO2 from air, r.d. 2.13, m.p. about 318oC, caustic soda, soda, soda lye,
white caustic, caustic drain cleaner 5% caustic soda, E524 (emulsifier), 1.22 gm
Sodium cm-3, cakes if stored for long period, a caustic alkali, pH solution >10, soap
hydroxide making, rayon and paper industry, (used in experiments for reaction of oxides of
period 3 elements and analytical reagent, preparing soap and making paper), very
dangerous to eyes, release heat when dissolved in water, must be pure white colour
to be pure sodium hydroxide.
NaOCl (aq), sodium chlorate (I), domestic bleach, oxidizing agent, 12.5% solution,
chlorox, liquid bleach, colourless, strong odour, heat decomposes, (4% Cl 2),
solution, (store below 25oC), (household bleach, domestic bleach, 5% NaOCl,
bleaching fluid), chlorine water, chloride of soda, chlorine bleach, water treatment
of swimming pools. NaOCl (aq) bleach evolves chlorine gas, which is highly
irritant to the lungs. If acid is added to bleach, large amounts of chlorine are
Sodium produced. The mixture becomes hot and may boil violently. Do not add
hypochlorite concentrated ammonia to bleach. Under some circumstances, nitrogen trichloride
(NCl3) forms. This is a violently unstable liquid, liable to explode without apparent
reason. NaOCl can bleach materials like flower petals, leaves and human hair.
NaOCl is a good source of chlorine gas for other experiments. Add dilute
hydrochloric acid from a dropping funnel to bleach solution in a conical flask fitted
with a rubber stopper and gas collection system. Keep sodium hydroxide solution
nearby to stop the reaction.
NaNO3, sodium nitrate (V), nitrate of soda, soda nitre, Chile saltpetre, nitratine,
saltpetre, E251 (meat preservative, colour fixative), colourless, odourless,
Sodium nitrate transparent, trigonal crystals or white granules, r.d. 2.26, m.p. 308oC, deliquescent
in moist air, Chile saltpetre from caliche deposits, Chile nitre, (agricultural
fertilizer), E251.
NaNO2, sodium nitrate (III) white to yellow rhombic crystals or granules, r.d. 2.17,
Sodium nitrite m.p. 271oC, hygroscopic granules, (inhibits corrosion), E250. Sodium nitrite with
acids forms nitrogen dioxide gas, toxic. Sodium nitrite with phenol, ammonium
salts, thiosulfates, cyanides forms explosive explosive mixtures.

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 19 of 21

Sodium perborate Strong oxidizing agent, for non-chlorine bleach detergents, monohydrate
NaBO3.H2O, tetrahydrate salt crystals NaBO3.4H2O (algaecide in swimming
pools).
(Na2O 8.6%, SiO2 28%), solution, waterglass, water glass, soluble glass, egg
Sodium silicate
preservative, fireproofing.
Na2SO4.10H2O, sodium sulfate decahydrate, mirabilite mineral, hydrated, crystals,
Glauber's salt, sal mirabile, cake, mirabilite, mirabilitum, purgative medicine, E514,
Sodium sulfate (Sodium sulfate anhydrous Na2SO4, white hygroscopic powder, r.d. 2.67, m.p.
888oC), (glauberite mineral, Na2Ca(SO4)2, has a bitter and salty taste).
Na2SO3.7H2O, hydrated, sodium sulfate (IV)-7-water, E221, (Sodium sulfite
Sodium sulfite anhydrous, Na2SO3, white hexagonal crystals or powder, r.d. 2.63, alkaline in
water).
Sodium Na2S2O3.5H2O, antichlor, colourless, odourless, monoclinic crystals or white
thiosulfate-5- granules, r.d. 1.69, m.p. 48oC, efflorescent in dry air, deliquescent in moist air,
water sodium hyposulfite, (deliquescent),
Stearic acid CH3(CH2)16COOH, powder, octadecanoic acid, m.p. 68oC to 69.5oC, (in fats).

H2SO4, oleum, fuming sulfuric acid, oil of vitriol. concentrated H2SO4, clear,
colourless, oily liquid, very hygroscopic, conc. 18 M, r.d. about 1.84, 18 mol per
mL, r.d. fuming H2SO4: 1.92 gm cm-3, (for accumulators), battery acid r.d. 1.25 gm
cm-3, E513, dilute H2SO4, 3 M, store in cool place.
Pure sulfuric acid is called concentrated sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid reacts violently
with water to form hydrated hydrogen ions
and hydrated sulfate ions. So the concept of dilution with water is inappropriate for
the concentrated acid because a vigorous chemical reaction occurs that releases
much heat. Do not add water to concentrated sulfuric acid. Dilute sulfuric acid by
adding the acid slowly to water with continuous stirring. Wear eye protection when
handling concentrated sulfuric acid. Water is less dense than sulfuric acid and will
layer itself on top of the acid. At the acid / water interface, heat is generated by
Sulfuric acid reaction of acid with water. This causes the water just above the interface to
become very hot. When a suitable nucleating particle or surface is found, a large
steam bubble forms, the middle section of the container boils suddenly and hot
acid / water mixture is ejected from the container, often travelling several metres
and causing serious chemical burns. If, the acid is slowly poured into water with
stirring, the same amount of heat is liberated, but the boiling point of the solution is
much higher than 100oC because of the presence of the sulfuric acid. The
temperature of the solution may rise to 150oC, but boiling still does not occur.
Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive to the skin and eyes. Wash sulfuric acid off the
skin immediately with a large volume of water. A small amount of water simply
brings about the acid water reaction and liberation of a great amount of heat,
causing the remaining sulfuric acid to be even more corrosive. Hot sulfuric acid is a
strong dehydrating agent and will cause organic materials, e.g. skin, to turn black
because of the removal of water, leaving a residue of carbon. Sulfuric acid is not
volatile, so neither the pure acid nor its solutions release vapour. However, strong

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 20 of 21

heating of the acid may cause decomposition and boiling to form an aerosol of
sulfuric acid droplets and sulfur dioxide gas that must not be inhaled. Sulfuric acid
forms a spontaneously explosive mixture with potassium permanganate to form
liquid manganese heptoxide. Similarly sulfuric acid forms a spontaneously
explosive mixture with chlorate salts where gaseous chlorine dioxide forms. Dilute
sulfuric acid solutions are far less dangerous than the concentrated acid because
they do not dehydrate or reducing materials and do not form much heat when
further diluted. Sulfuric acid collected from lead-acid batteries will be contaminated
with lead.
H2SO3, 6% SO2 solution in water, clear, colourless solution, penetrating SO2
Sulfurous acid
odour, oxidizes in air to sulfuric acid.
(CHOHCOOH)2, (CHOH)2(COOH)2, C4H6O6, racemic acid, 2, 3-
dihydroxybutanedioic acid, colourless, odourless, transparent, monoclinic crystals,
Tartaric acid or white granules, r.d. 1.76, m.p. 168 to 170oC E334, from potassium hydrogen
tartrate, sour taste food flavour, in winw and fruits, e.g. tamarind, tartrate salts,
from potassium tartrate, tartar.
SnCl2.2H2O, stannous chloride, butter of tin, colourless, monoclinic crystals,
Tin (II) chloride absorbs O2 from air to form insoluble stannous oxychloride, r.d. 2.71, m.p. 37 to
38oC, (Also anhydrous SnCl2).
TiO2, titanium dioxide, colour white, opacifer, "white out" correction fluid, white
Titanium (IV)
pigments for tennis shoes, white paint, from mineral rutile, ilmenite FeTiO3, food
oxide
additive, E171, the 3 mineral forms are anatase, brookite and rutile
CH3CCl3, (E512), methyl chloroform, grease solvent, safer alternative to
tetrachloromethane, (carbon tetrachloride, CCl4). Solvent in "white-out" correction
1,1,1- fluids banned in many school systems. Ozone-depleting chemical being phased out
trichloroethane of use. Mixed with active metals, e.g. Na, Mg, Al, , forms metal chloride and
carbon in highly exothermic reaction. Substitute non-chlorinating solvents, e.g.
acetone or ethanol.
Trichloromethane CHCl3, chloroform, colourless, mobile, clear, sweet taste liquid, distinct odour, Not
inflammable, vapour in flame may form poisonous gases, b.p. 61oC, store dark,
cool place, former anaesthetic, solvent.
Trisodium Na3PO4.12H2O, sodium orthophosphate, "sodium phosphate", tribasic, trisodium
phosphate (V) orthophosphate, "TSP", colourless to white odourless, trigonal crystals, (sodium
phosphate decahydrate Na3PO4.10H2O), (sodium phosphate dodecahydrate
Na3PO4.12H2O), r.d. 1.6, m.p. about 73oC, acidity regulator, food buffer, thickener
E339.
ZnO, white to yellow, amorphous powder, r.d. 5.47, m.p. above 1 800oC, white
Zinc oxide pigment, zincite, white zinc, zinc white, Chinese white, spartalite, craft, zinc sun
cream medicine and other skin problems.
ZnSO4.7H2O, colourless, odourless, white rhombic crystals or powder, r.d. 1.97,
Zinc sulfate m.p. about 50oC, efflorescent in dry air, anhydrous at 200oC, decomposes above
500oC, white vitriol, zinc vitriol, white copperas, gosla rite, in zinc deficiency

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011
Appendix A Page 21 of 21

medicines
Zinc sulfide ZnS, white-yellow solid, soluble, sublimes, sphalerite or zinc blende, phosphor,
pigment.
Zirconium (IV) ZnO2, zirconia, baddeleyite, for craft, fuel cell electrolyte.
oxide
Ammonia, ammonia solution, NH3 (aq) (COR 2672), (28%), 18 M
See: 12.11.3.10.2: Tests for ammonium radical, NH4+, free and combined ammonia, Nessler's reagent
Use in a fume cupboard. Use eye and skin protection. Do not mix ammonia with halogens, F, Cl, Br to
avoid explosive reaction. Ammonia with solid iodine forms a highly unstable nitrogen triiodide
complex, touch powder. Do not make touch powder.
Solution of ammonia in water, NH3 (aq), colourless liquid, suffocating, pungent odour, absorbs CO 2
from air < 10% actual NH3, "880" ammonia concentrated ammonia solution, 15.5 M, 880 ammonia
solution, 0.88 gm cm-3, aqua ammonia, ammonia water, ammonia hydrate, spirits of hartshorn, Liq.
Amm. Fort 16 mol per mL, "cloudy ammonia" contains soap solution, E527, dilute ammonia solution, 6
M, needs cool storage, alkaline solution.
Ammonia, NH3 (aq), or NH4OH, For 2 M solution., dilute 330 mL of 10% solution in 1 L water
Ammonia solution, (10% ammonia solution), 5.3.4
Ammonia solution 3 M: dilute 200 mL, (28%), 14.8 M concentrated solution to 1 litre of water
Ammonia solution 4 M: dilute 220 mL, (28%), 18 M concentrated solution to 1 litre of water,
("ammonium hydroxide"),
Ammonia solution 4 M: Dilute 220 mL, (28%), 18 M concentrated solution to 1 litre of water,
("ammonium hydroxide"),
Ammonia solution 3 M: Dilute 200 mL, (28%), 14.8 M concentrated solution to 1 litre of water, (Not
"ammonium hydroxide, NH4OH". Ammonia solution is shown as NH3 (aq), because "(NH4+)," ions and
"(OH-)," ions can be detected, but "NH4OH" cannot be detected.

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/appendixA.html 1/11/2011