It's ammonium dichromate.
The reaction between NH4Cr2O7 and HgSCN results in the formation of a red precipitate of mercury(II) thiocyanate.
When ammonium dichromate (NH4Cr2O7) and mercury thiocyanate (HgSCN) are combined, a chemical reaction occurs that produces a dramatic and visually striking effect known as the "Pharaoh's Serpent" or "Pharaoh's Snake." This reaction results in the formation of a dark, snake-like solid that appears to grow and expand rapidly, accompanied by the release of gases such as nitrogen and water vapor. The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat energy, and the resulting solid is primarily composed of mercury sulfide (HgS) and other byproducts.
The reaction between NH4Cr2O7 and HgSCN results in the formation of a red precipitate of mercury(II) thiocyanate.
When ammonium dichromate (NH4Cr2O7) and mercury thiocyanate (HgSCN) are combined, a chemical reaction occurs that produces a dramatic and visually striking effect known as the "Pharaoh's Serpent" or "Pharaoh's Snake." This reaction results in the formation of a dark, snake-like solid that appears to grow and expand rapidly, accompanied by the release of gases such as nitrogen and water vapor. The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat energy, and the resulting solid is primarily composed of mercury sulfide (HgS) and other byproducts.