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.

From Project Gutenberg

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.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg