Mercury(II) sulfide facts for kids
Mercury(II) sulfide is a special chemical compound. You might also hear it called cinnabar or mercuric sulfide. Its chemical formula is HgS. This means it's made of mercury and sulfur atoms joined together. The mercury part has a specific electrical charge, which scientists call an oxidation state.
What is Mercury(II) Sulfide?
Mercury(II) sulfide can be a red or black solid. It comes in two main types, or forms. One form is called cinnabar, and it's the most common one. The other form is metacinnabar.
You can make metacinnabar in a lab. This happens when a mercury chemical, like mercury(II) chloride, mixes with a gas called hydrogen sulfide. Mercury(II) sulfide is very strong. It only reacts with the most powerful acids. When it reacts, it turns back into hydrogen sulfide and a mercury chemical. It does not dissolve in water. If you heat it up, it breaks down into sulfur dioxide gas and pure mercury metal.
Where is Cinnabar Found?
Mercury(II) sulfide is found naturally as the mineral called cinnabar. Cinnabar is the most common mineral that contains mercury. It is also the main source, or ore, from which mercury is taken. Cinnabar is known for its bright red color. It is a soft mineral and feels quite heavy.
How is Cinnabar Used?
Mercury(II) sulfide is famous for making the bright red color called vermilion. This color has been used for a very long time as a pigment in paints. It was also used to make beautiful lacquerware, which are special containers covered with a shiny coating. Today, it is still used in some traditional Chinese medicine practices.
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