Mercury

Mercury Group 12, Period 6 Atomic Number 80 Atomic Mass 200.59 amu



Dear Sir/Madam:

My name is Mercury. I saw your ad next to the Periodic Table for thermometer fluid. I would like to apply for that position. Being the most suited element for that job, you can't turn me down. I have been around since ancient times, so I have loads of experience. My previous occupations include, barometer, fluorescent lamp, and battery. But the most fun I had ever had with a job was back in the 18th century. When fur hats were made, a couple nitrogens, oxygens, and I were all part of a team to help strip the fur from the pelt of an animal, and because we produced an “orangish” color, the term “carroting” was coined. But now that fur hat making is outlawed, I am out of a job. It just seems that no one wants me anymore. I think that it is because I am toxic. That brings me to discuss the risks involved in hiring me. Whenever I poison someone, their skin can peel off. But that's not all. I can cause severe neurological problems in the brain, which in turn effects the rest of the body. In all, I damage the central nervous system, endocrine system, kidneys, and other organs, and adversely affect the mouth, gums, and teeth. But I can also be very useful. I am useful because I am a metal, that is liquid at the same time. In fact, I am known to be the one of the only metals that is liquid at room temperature, which gives me special properties other than other liquids at room temperature. When paired with other metals, like gold or silver, I form something called an amalgam. An amalgam is a substance formed when a reaction between another metal and I happens. When I am paired with gold, I form a gold-mercury amalgam, which is used in the extraction of gold from ore. I am also known for being the best for thermometers, because I can measure a wide range of temperatures, I don't freeze like water or alcohol, and I have less cohesive force than water, making the thermometer more accurate and easier to read manually. Here I have a few recommendations from some fellow elements:

Gold: “Without mercury, I couldn't be extracted from ore, he is the right choice for your thermometer.” Silver: “Mercury used to help me fill in holes in people's teeth, with the amalgam we formed. Pick him for the job”.

Thank you and I hope to receive this job.

Sincerely: Mercury

Ryan Z