The product formed when mercury (Hg) reacts with acetate (CH₃COO⁻) is mercury(II) acetate.

Here's the chemical equation:

Hg + 2 CH₃COO⁻ → Hg(CH₃COO)₂

Here's why:

* Mercury(II) ions: Mercury typically forms a +2 oxidation state, resulting in Hg²⁺ ions.

* Acetate ions: Acetate ions have a -1 charge (CH₃COO⁻).

* Balancing charges: To form a neutral compound, two acetate ions are needed to balance the +2 charge of the mercury ion.

Therefore, the final product is mercury(II) acetate, also known as mercuric acetate.