Mercury

Mercury is the only metal to be a liquid at room temperature, and has been known since ancient times. It melts at -38.84 degrees C and boils at 356.73 degrees C.

Ancients discovered that Hg, when used with sulfur (S) has transmutational powers.

Hg is used in thermometers, electrical switches and relays, fluorescent lamps, dentistry, batteries, antiseptics, ammunition, red paint, and some medication.

Exposure to Hg can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, pulmonary edema, kidney disease, tremors, and gum problems. Mercury is corrosive. It was named after the planet Mercury, and the symbol comes from the word for liquid silver. It is silvery-white and rarely found free in nature. It is a fair conductor of electricity.


January 31, 1998

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