Overview
Mercury is a dense, silvery metal that is liquid at ambient temperatures and has unique applications and significant toxicity concerns.
Properties
It has high surface tension, forms amalgams with many metals and vaporizes to toxic mercury vapor at elevated temperatures.
Occurrence and Uses
Historically used in thermometers, barometers, gold extraction and industrial processes; many uses have declined due to toxicity and regulation.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotopes include Hg 196 to Hg 204; mercury is highly toxic to nervous systems and ecosystems and requires strict environmental and occupational controls.