Mercury
Mercury is a chemical element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. It is known for being the only metal that is liquid at room temperature. Mercury is sometimes called quicksilver due to its shiny, silver appearance.
Uses:
- Thermometers: Mercury is used in thermometers because it expands and contracts evenly with temperature changes.
- Barometers: It's used in barometers to measure atmospheric pressure.
- Electrical Switches: Mercury is used in some types of switches and relays because it can conduct electricity.
- Dental Fillings: It is used in dental amalgams to fill cavities, though this use is decreasing due to health concerns.
- Fluorescent Lamps: Mercury vapor is used in fluorescent and mercury-vapor lamps.
Also Check: Osmosis | Octane Number | Corrosion
Related Links: Fluorine | Isomerism | Iodine
Size:
Mercury atoms are relatively large for a metal atom. The radius of a mercury atom is about 150 picometers (pm), which is 150 trillionths of a meter.
Density:
Mercury is very dense. Its density is about 13.6 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³). This means that mercury is 13.6 times heavier than water for the same volume.
Color:
Mercury has a shiny, silver-gray color. It looks like liquid metal. When it forms compounds with other elements, the color can change. For example, mercuric oxide is a bright red or orange color.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Mercury
Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, has no moons, is the smallest planet, has a rocky surface, and has extreme temperature changes.
It's named after the Roman messenger god because it moves quickly across the sky.
No, Venus is hotter, even though Mercury is closer to the Sun.
Mercury is made mostly of rock and metal, with a large iron core.
Mercury was used in thermometers, barometers, and some industrial processes.
Elemental mercury is liquid at room temperature because of its unique atomic structure.
Mercury has the most extreme temperature differences of any planet and has a very thin atmosphere.
Mercury is both; it can be extremely hot during the day and very cold at night.