← Periodensystem
Hg
Element Nr. 80

Mercury

transition metal liquid Seit der Antike bekannt
200.592 Atomgewicht (u)
-38.83 °C Schmelzpunkt
356.73 °C Siedepunkt
13.534 g/cm3 Dichte
2 Elektronegativität
[Xe] 4f14 5d10 6s2 Elektronenkonfiguration
6 Periode
12 Gruppe

📖 Über Mercury

The only metal that is liquid at room temperature. Mercury is highly toxic, damaging the nervous system, kidneys, and brain. Methylmercury (organic mercury) bioaccumulates up the food chain, making large predatory fish like tuna a health concern. Despite its toxicity, mercury has a long history in medicine, mining (gold amalgam), and industry.

🔧 Verwendungen und Anwendungen

  • Thermometers and barometers (being phased out)
  • Fluorescent lighting (contains mercury vapor)
  • Gold mining (amalgamation, being phased out)
  • Dental amalgam fillings
  • Electrical switches and relays

💡 Wusstest du?

Fakt: The phrase "mad as a hatter" comes from the 19th century hat-making industry, where mercury nitrate was used to cure felt. Hat makers chronically exposed to mercury vapors developed neurological symptoms including tremors, mood swings, and hallucinations.