Helium vs. Mercury

Attribute	Helium	Mercury
Atomic Number	2	80
Atomic Symbol	He	Hg
Atomic Mass	4.0026 u	200.59 u
State at Room Temperature	Gas	Liquid
Boiling Point	-268.9°C	356.73°C
Melting Point	-272.2°C	-38.83°C

Physical Properties

Helium and Mercury are both elements on the periodic table, but they have very different physical properties. Helium is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is the second lightest element and has the lowest boiling point of all the elements. On the other hand, Mercury is a heavy, silvery-white metal that is liquid at room temperature. It is the only metal that is liquid at standard conditions for temperature and pressure.

Boiling and Melting Points

One of the key differences between Helium and Mercury is their boiling and melting points. Helium has a boiling point of -268.9 degrees Celsius and a melting point of -272.2 degrees Celsius. This makes it one of the coldest substances on Earth. In contrast, Mercury has a boiling point of 356.73 degrees Celsius and a melting point of -38.83 degrees Celsius. This means that Mercury is a liquid at room temperature, while Helium remains a gas.

Chemical Properties

When it comes to their chemical properties, Helium and Mercury also differ significantly. Helium is a noble gas, which means it is very stable and does not readily react with other elements. It is non-toxic and non-flammable, making it a safe choice for a variety of applications. On the other hand, Mercury is a heavy metal that is toxic to humans and animals. It can cause serious health problems if ingested or inhaled, so it must be handled with care.

Common Uses

Despite their differences, both Helium and Mercury have important uses in various industries. Helium is commonly used in cryogenics, as it can reach extremely low temperatures. It is also used in balloons, airships, and as a coolant in nuclear reactors. Mercury, on the other hand, is used in thermometers, barometers, and some electrical switches. It is also used in dental fillings and fluorescent lights.

Environmental Impact

When it comes to the environment, both Helium and Mercury can have negative impacts if not handled properly. Helium is a non-renewable resource, meaning that once it is used up, it cannot be replaced. This has led to concerns about a potential shortage of Helium in the future. Mercury, on the other hand, is a toxic substance that can pollute water and soil if not disposed of properly. It can bioaccumulate in the food chain, posing a risk to both humans and wildlife.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Helium and Mercury are two very different elements with unique properties and uses. While Helium is a light, non-reactive gas that is essential for various applications, Mercury is a heavy, toxic metal that must be handled with care. Understanding the differences between these two elements is important for ensuring their safe and responsible use in industry and everyday life.