Nessler's reagent

[nes-lerz]

noun

1. an aqueous solution of potassium iodide, mercuric chloride, and potassium hydroxide, used as a test for the presence of ammonia.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Nessler's reagent¹

First recorded in 1870–75; nesslerize

Example Sentences

Tests.—Nessler's reagent is the most delicate, a reddish-brown colour or precipitate being produced, but ammonia may be recognized by its pungent odour, dense fumes given off with hydrochloric acid, and strong alkaline reaction.

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This is effected by means of "Nessler's" reagent, which strikes a brown colour with traces of ammonia, even with a few hundredths of a milligram in 100 c.c. of liquid.

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Fifty c.c. of it are transferred to a Nessler glass and mixed with 2 c.c. of Nessler's reagent.

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Ammonia, almost always present in distilled and rain water Brown coloration, or precipitate with Nessler's reagent.

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