Properties : Metallic mercury in its ordinary form is a shining, silver-white, volatile and fluid metal without odor or taste In its massive form it has comparatively little physiologic action and is not poisonous even in large quantities. When it has been reduced to a fine state of subdivision it is capable of absorption either by the skin or raucous membranes, and then produces the ordinary pharmacologic effects of its salts. It is also very active in the form of vapor.

Mercury is widely used in the form of the following mixtures :