Mercury metal is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
Mercury, atomic number 80, is a natural elemental metal that is notorious for its toxic properties. But, did you know that it was once used as a common elixir and topical medicine? The ancient Persians and Greeks considered it a useful ointment, and second-century Chinese alchemists prized liquid mercury, or “quicksilver,” and red mercury sulfide for their supposed ability to increase lifespan and vitality. Some healers even promised that by consuming noxious brews containing poisonous mercury, sulfur and arsenic, their patients would gain eternal life and the ability to walk on water. One of the most famous casualties of this diet was the Chinese Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who supposedly died after ingesting mercury pills designed to make him immortal.
Mercury melts in your hand. But it’s probably not a great idea to try this.
From the Renaissance until the early 20th century, Mercury was also used as a popular medicine for sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis. While some accounts claimed the heavy metal treatment was successful in fighting off the infection, patients often died from liver and kidney damage caused by mercury poisoning.
And, of course, Mercury has, until a couple of decades ago been the principle component of tooth fillings.
How the world has changed!
