Question

Ozone is an allotropic form of oxygen. It acts as a powerful oxidising agent.

During the oxidation of mercury (Hg) by ozone, the sub oxide (Hg₂O) formed dissolves in mercury causing it to lose its meniscus and starts sticking to the sides of glass. What is this phenomenon called?

Options

• Branching of mercury

• Tailing of mercury

• Breaking of meniscus

• distorted meniscus

Answer 1

Tailing of mercury

Explanation:

Ozone oxidises mercury (Hg) to mercurous oxide (Hg₂O). This suboxide dissolves in mercury, making it lose its meniscus and causing it to stick to the walls of the glass vessel. This phenomenon is known as tailing of mercury.