Mercury Essay

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This naturally occurring metal element has an atomic number of 80, atomic weight 200.59, melting point of 234.32 K, boiling point of 629.88 K, density at 13.5336 grams per cubic centimeter, with symbol Hg. An element that is found in the earth’s crust and cannot be destroyed or created. This element is called Mercury. Mercury can be traced back to the ancient Chinese and Hindus and has been found in 3500 year old Egyptian tombs. According to Environmental Protection Agency, Mercury can be found in air, water, and soil (2014). Pure mercury is sometimes referred to as quicksilver, which is a liquid metal. Exposure to mercury or its compounds can cause Mercury Poisoning (also known as hydrargyria or mercurialism).

Mercury exists in several forms. The forms are: elemental or metallic, inorganic, and organic mercury compounds. Elemental mercury can be found in electrical switches, glass thermometers, dental fillings, some medical equipment, and fluorescent light bulbs. Inorganic can be found in some disinfectants, batteries, folk culture medicines, chemistry labs, and red cinnabar miner...

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