Final answer:
Mercury, symbolized by Hg, is the element known as "liquid silver" from Latin and has been found in ancient tombs. It was used by civilizations for various functions including ceremonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The element whose symbol is derived from the Latin for "liquid silver" and has been found in Egyptian and Mayan tombs from 1500 BC is mercury. Mercury's chemical symbol, Hg, comes from the Latin word hydrargyrum, meaning "liquid silver" due to its silvery appearance and liquid state at room temperature.
Throughout history, mercury has been discovered in various ancient tombs, where it was used for various purposes, including as part of funeral rites as described by Howard Carter's excavation notes. Ancient civilizations were aware of metals like iron, copper, silver, gold, and mercury, and crafted artifacts such as grave goods from these precious metals.