A delicate test for the acid, free or in
combination, is to dissolve in the suspected fluid some crystals of
ferrous sulphate, and then to gently pour down the test-tube some strong
sulphuric acid. Where the two liquids meet, if nitric acid be present, a
reddish-brown ring will be formed. It turns the skin bright yellow, and
does the same with woollen clothes, from the formation of _picric_ acid.
_Fatal Dose._--Two drachms.
_Fatal Period._--Shortest, one hour and three-quarters in an adult; in
infants in a few minutes, from suffocation.
XII.--HYDROCHLORIC ACID
=Hydrochloric Acid=, muriatic acid, or spirit of salt, is not uncommonly
used for suicidal purposes, being fifth in the list.
_Method of Extraction from the Stomach._--The same as for sulphuric
acid. As hydrochloric acid is a constituent of the gastric juice, the
signs of the acid must be looked for.
_Post-Mortem Appearances._--The mucous membranes are dry, white, and
shrivelled, and often eroded.
_Tests._--The concentrated acid yields dense white fumes with ammonia.
When warmed with black oxide of manganese and strong sulphuric acid it
gives off chlorine, recognized by its smell and bleaching properties.
Pages:
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164