Hypoiodous acid is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula . It forms when an aqueous solution of iodine is treated with mercuric or silver salts. It rapidly decomposes by disproportionation:[1]
Hypoiodites of alkali and alkaline earth metals can be made in cold dilute solutions if iodine is added to their respective hydroxides.Hypoiodous acid is a weak acid with a pKa of about 11. The conjugate base is hypoiodite . Salts of this anion can be prepared by treating with alkali hydroxides. They rapidly disproportionate to form iodides and iodates.[1]