Mercury

usgb/ˈmɜːrkjəri/
noun

A chemical element that is a heavy, silver colored metal that is liquid at normal temperatures.

Mercury is used in thermometers because it expands and contracts evenly with temperature changes.
Visual representation of "mercury" - A chemical element that is a heavy, silver colored metal that is liquid at normal temperatures.

Often appears as...

  • elemental mercury
  • mercury poisoning

Usage tips

Scientific

Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "mercury"
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Safety Hazard

Mercury is toxic; understanding its dangers helps avoid referencing it as benign or safe.

Illustration for Safety Hazard
Due to mercury poisoning risks, many schools now use digital thermometers.
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Unique State

Recognize that mercury's liquid form distinguishes it from other metals in discussions.

Illustration for Unique State
The artists used mercury's unique state to represent fluidity in their sculpture.
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Scientific Uses

In scientific contexts, 'mercury' underscores its application in precise instruments and research.

Illustration for Scientific Uses
We measured the substance's volume displacement with mercury in the laboratory.
Visual representation of the word "Mercury"

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