Cuprous Oxide

Cu 2 O. Syn. Red oxide of copper , Dinox′ide , Suboxide ; Cupri subox′ydum , L. Prep. Add grape sugar to a solution of sulphate or acetate of copper, then further add caustic pota a in exce ; the blue solution heated to ebullition deposits the suboxide, which must then be collected, washed, and dried. A solution of cane sugar, 27 parts, in water, 60 parts, is poured over hydrated oxide of copper (weighed in the compre ed and still moist state), 9 parts; a solution of caustic pota a, 18 parts, in water, 60 parts, is then added, and the whole ma well agitated together at the ordinary temperature, and strained through linen. If the dark-blue filtrate is next heated (continually stirring), over a water bath, anhydrous cuprous oxide is disengaged, and the liquor becomes nearly colourle . Prop., Uses, . A superb red powder, with a metallic lustre. It often occurs in beautiful transparent, ruby-red crystals, a ociated with other ores of copper, and can be obtained in this state by artificial means. It is used as a pigment and a bronze, and as a stain for gla and enamels, to which it gives a rich red colour. By heat it is converted into the black oxide. With ammonia it forms a colourle solution, which rapidly becomes blue from the action of the air.