It is also called Mercury(II) chloride, or Mercury dichloride, or Dichloromercury. It is highly a toxic compound and is corrosive to mucous membranes. It is widely used as a disinfectant, antiseptic, fungicide, wood preservative. Mercury dichloride is odourless crystalline solid white in colour.

Application

Used in photography, disinfectants, wood preservatives, fungicides. Mercury chloride (HgCl2) is a highly toxic compound that volatizes slightly at ordinary temperature and appreciably at 100 degrees C. It is corrosive to mucous membranes and used as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant.