Question

Nicknamed quicksilver, it is the only metallic element that is liquid at room temperature. It is used in thermometers because of its uniform expansion with temperature. A toxic substance, it is found in ever-increasing concentrations in large ocean fish such as swordfish and tuna.

a. Mercury
b. Gallium
c. Lead
d. Tin

Answer 1

The metallic element known as quicksilver is mercury, which is liquid at room temperature and used in thermometers, but is also toxic and found in large predatory fish.

Step-by-step explanation:

The substance commonly known as quicksilver is the metallic element that remains liquid at room temperature, used historically in thermometers due to its consistent volumetric expansion with changes in temperature. This metal is mercury. Known for its high surface tension and the ability to form amalgams with other metals, mercury has a significant place in scientific applications and industrial processes. However, due to its toxicity, it has become a concern for public health, especially as it bioaccumulates in large ocean predators such as tuna and swordfish, making them potentially dangerous for consumption. Mercury has a melting point of -39°C, distinguishing it significantly from other metals like tungsten, which has the highest melting point among metals at 3422°C.