Mercury(II) bromide is used as a reagent in the Koenigs–Knorr reaction, which forms glycoside linkages on carbohydrates. It is also used to test for the presence of arsenic, as recommended by the Pharmacopoeia. The arsenic in the sample is first converted to arsine gas by treatment with hydrogen.

Application

Mercury(II) bromide is used as a reagent in the Koenigs–Knorr reaction, which forms glycoside linkages on carbohydrates. It is also used to test for the presence of arsenic, as recommended by the Pharmacopoeia. The arsenic in the sample is first converted to arsine gas by treatment with hydrogen.