Mercury

Mercury is a chemical element with symbol Hg and atomic number 80. It is commonly known as quicksilver and was formerly named hydrargyrum (/haɪˈdrɑːrdʒərəm/). A heavy, silvery d-block element, mercury is the only metallic element that is liquid at standard conditions for temperature and pressure; the only other element that is liquid under these conditions is bromine, though metals such as caesium, gallium, and rubidium melt just above room temperature.

Properties

• Phase: Liquid
• Density: 13.534 g/cm³
• Melting Point: 234.321 K
• Boiling Point: 629.88 K

Uses

• Thermometers and barometers: Historical instruments for temperature and pressure.
• Mirror: Tin-mercury silvering in antique glass mirrors.
• Gold: Amalgamation to extract gold (toxic, avoid when possible).
• Pigments: Cinnabar/vermilion reds (highly toxic).
• Electrical switches: Liquid contacts in specialized relays and tilt switches.

Extraction Process

Mercury is most often obtained from cinnabar (HgS).

• Roast the ore: Heat cinnabar in a closed vessel to release mercury vapor.
• Condense: Lead the vapor into a cooled retort or pipe to liquefy it.
• Collect and store: Gather the liquid metal, often stored under water to reduce oxidation and vapor loss.