An alkaline solution of mercuric iodide and potassium iodide, containing HgI₄ 2− ions, which gives a brown colour or precipitate when added to an aqueous solution containing ammonia. Similarly "Nessler('s) solution".
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Journal of the Chemical Society.
Definition of Nessler's reagent in US English:
Nessler's reagent
(also Nessler reagent)
noun
Chemistry
An alkaline solution of mercuric iodide and potassium iodide, containing HgI₄ 2− ions, which gives a brown colour or precipitate when added to an aqueous solution containing ammonia. Similarly "Nessler('s) solution".
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Journal of the Chemical Society.