Mercury thermometers are as common in the lab as glass beakers or Bunsen burners. Unfortunately, like many things that are dealt with every day, we tend to become desensitized to the danger mercury presents. Mercury is a toxic material to our environment. It is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature and as such it vaporizes. If spilled and left unattended, mercury will continue to emit toxic vapors for years.
Mercury vapors are colorless, odorless and tasteless.
Detection of mercury vapors is possible only by the use of specialized equipment. Mercury vapors are also highly toxic. Fortunately, there is an alternative. These thermometers are as accurate as their mercury containing counterparts, and can be used for all the same applications. These pages are created and maintained by Vaughn C. Kowahl.