Silver Liquid Mercury

Liquid mercury, characterized by its shiny, silver-white appearance, is a colorless and odorless metal. Many people encounter liquid mercury in devices like thermometers and barometers. It is also commonly utilized in blood pressure monitors and other specialized instruments.

Spirit-based thermometers are now widely used as a safer alternative, but some individuals still rely on thermometers containing mercury, often referred to as 'quicksilver.' While intact, these thermometers pose no risk. However, if broken, they can release mercury vapor, which may be inhaled, or cause exposure through skin contact, leading to potential health hazards due to mercury's toxic properties.

Even small amounts of mercury exposure can cause significant health issues, posing a particular risk to fetal development and early childhood growth. Mercury is toxic to multiple body systems, including the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes, potentially leading to serious and lasting effects.

Mercury dissolves many metals such as gold and silver to form amalgams. Iron is an exception, and iron flasks have traditionally been used to transport the material. Several other first row transition metals with the exception of manganese, copper and zinc are also resistant in forming amalgams.

It is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature (a fact that made it ideal for old thermometers). It's also extremely rare—so rare that in the atmosphere, scientists have to measure it in parts per trillion.

You see, mercury is poisonous, and you really don't want to come into contact with it. 

Methylmercury, which is known to be the most poisonous among the mercury compounds is created when inorganic mercury circulating in the general environment is dissolved into freshwater and seawater.