mercuryvapor

Mercury vapor, sometimes written as mercuryvapor, is the gaseous form of elemental mercury (Hg). Elemental mercury has a boiling point of 356.7°C; at room temperature a small fraction continuously evaporates, generating a colorless, odorless vapor that can mix with indoor air. Inhalation is the primary route of exposure to mercury vapor, and the gas can diffuse through air currents and travel beyond the immediate source.

Sources of mercury vapor include historical uses such as thermometers, sphygmomanometers, and fluorescent lamps, as well as dental amalgams, certain industrial processes (for example chlorine production and some mining operations), and spills from consumer devices. Mercury in the environment can volatilize, contributing to indoor and outdoor air mercury levels and posing exposure risks where mercury-containing devices are present or improperly disposed.

Health effects from mercury vapor depend on dose and duration of exposure. Acute inhalation can irritate the respiratory tract, cause coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Chronic exposure can affect the nervous system, leading to tremors, irritability, memory problems, sleep disturbances, and cognitive or motor impairment. Fetuses and young children are especially vulnerable to developmental effects from mercury vapor exposure.

Environmental and regulatory context: Mercury vapor contributes to atmospheric mercury that can deposit in ecosystems, where elemental mercury can be transformed into methylmercury, a more toxic form that bioaccumulates in aquatic food webs. Many jurisdictions regulate occupational exposure and mandate precautions for handling mercury-containing devices, spill management, and proper disposal to minimize human and environmental health risks.