Some experiments on a solid compound of iodine and oxygen, and on its chemical agencies

The author having observed that when a compound of iodine and chlorine was poured into an alkaline solution, there occurred a precipitate of iodine combined with oxygen, inferred that iodine would in all probability decompose the gaseous compound of oxygen and chlorine; and upon trial found this presumption confirmed. For when iodine is exposed to euchlorine at the common temperatures of the atmosphere, there is an immediate action, and the formation of two compounds, an orange-coloured liquid consisting of chlorine and iodine, and a white powder composed of iodine and oxygen. By the application of a gentle heat, the former is made to rise in vapour, and the latter then remains as a semi-transparent white solid. It has no smell, but a strong astringent sour taste. Its specific gravity is such that it sinks in strong sulphuric acid.