elavhõlist

Elavhõbe, also known as mercury, is a chemical element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. It is a heavy, silvery-white metal that is liquid at room temperature, a property shared only by bromine. Mercury has a low melting point of -38.83 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 356.73 degrees Celsius. Its density is 13.534 grams per cubic centimeter, making it one of the densest elements.

Mercury is found in cinnabar ore and is extracted through smelting. Historically, it has been used in various applications, including thermometers, barometers, and electrical switches. It was also employed in some medicinal practices, though its toxicity is now well-established. Mercury compounds have been used in dentistry for amalgam fillings, in agriculture as pesticides, and in industry for manufacturing batteries and fluorescent lamps.

The toxicity of mercury is a significant concern. Exposure can occur through inhalation of mercury vapor, ingestion, or skin absorption. Mercury and its compounds can affect the nervous system, kidneys, and developing fetus. Due to these health risks, the use of mercury has been significantly reduced in many applications, and international agreements aim to limit its release into the environment. Recycling of mercury-containing products is crucial to prevent pollution.