MERCURY

Mercury is one of the only common metals that is a liquid at room temperatures. Mercury is sometimes known as quicksilver. It is rarely found in open nature, and is mainly found in Spain and Italy.

Mercury is a heavy silver-white liquid metal. It is a poor conductor of heat compared to other metals. But it is a great conductor of electricity. It works fairly with other metals such as gold, silver, and tin.

Mercury was first discovered by the ancient Hindus, and Chinese. It has been found in many Egyptian tombs dating back to 1500 b.c.

Mercury and its compounds are very poisonous. It is readily absorbed across unbroken skin or through the respiratory tract. An electrical discharge can cause Mercury to combine with the noble gases argon, krypton, neon, and xenon.

Mercury gets its name from the planet Mercury and its use in alchemy. The alchemical symbol came from the Latin name 'hydragyrum' which means 'silver water'

It is an extremely hazardous substance and can be fatal if ingested. It should be kept away from children and pets and should never be touched with bare hands.

When Mercury is poured onto a flat surface, it forms into distinct small beads that move around as if they are alive, this is where the name quick silver originated from. A French chemist was the one who distinguished Mercury as an element.

A unique thing about Mercury is that even though it is a liquid, it is not wet like other liquids. Meaning it does not get absorbed by other substances or materials.

Mercury is used in a number of scientific and medical instruments. Including: the barometer, thermometer, diffusion lump, hygrometer, hydrometer, and many others.

OTHER USES

• Neon signs
• Dental fillings (combined with silver)
• Manufacturing pesticides, paints, and batteries
• Also used as a catalyst in chemical reactions

MERCURY

• Symbol: Hg (hydragyrum
• Melting point: -37.89 degrees Fahrenheit
• Boiling point: 674.1 degrees Fahrenheit

Mercury is 13.6 times heavier than water and causes extreme fascination by how it looks to be 'alive' when it moves.

People have to refrain themselves from touching the extreme toxic and poisonous metal, because it can combine and seep through skin.

Bibliography

http://www.techradar.com/us/news/wearables/apple-iwatch-release-date-news-a...

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/mercury-element-facts.html