| Formula / Notation | Hg |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7439-97-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 200.59 |
| Melting Point | -38.8 |
| Boiling Point | 356.7 |
| Density | 13.53 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Shiny, silvery-white liquid metal at room temperature |
| Also Known As | Hg, hydrargyrum, quicksilver |
| Category | Elements |
What is Mercury?
Mercury is a silvery-white liquid metal at room temperature, atomic number 80. The only metallic element that is liquid at standard conditions. Highly toxic - accumulates in the food chain (methylmercury in fish). Previously used widely in thermometers, barometers, and dental amalgam.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Mercury
Other Names / Synonyms: Hg, hydrargyrum, quicksilver
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | -38.8 |
| Boiling Point | 356.7 |
| Density | 13.53 |
| Molecular Weight | 200.59 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Shiny, silvery-white liquid metal at room temperature |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Mercury is a silvery-white liquid metal at room temperature, atomic number 80. The only metallic element that is liquid at standard conditions. Highly toxic - accumulates in the food chain (methylmercury in fish). Previously used widely in thermometers, barometers, and dental amalgam.
Thermometers and barometers (being phased out). Mercury vapour lamps and fluorescent lights. Dental amalgam (Hg-Ag-Sn-Cu - still used controversially). Electrical switches and relays. Chloralkali process catalyst. Mercury fulminate detonator. Cinnabar (HgS) historical pigment.
Highly toxic - IDLH 10 mg/m3. Mercury vapour: causes neurological damage, tremors, memory loss, kidney damage (mad hatter disease). Methylmercury (CH3Hg+): bioaccumulates in fish - causes Minamata disease (severe neurological damage). Never heat mercury in open. Mercury spills require specialist cle…
The formula or notation for Mercury is: Hg