Is there that much mercury in a thermometer for one to be concerned if it breaks?

Answer 1

The problem is that at room temperature, mercury will evaporate. It enters the system easily, by skin contacts and respiratory system. And when you inhale mercury it will stay in your system, just like all heavy metal poisoning case.

So even a small amount of mercury must be taken seriously, although it is not exactly a lethal dose. One can only get this mad cow disease type only after a prolonged and high exposure to it (the same to the Minamata disease victims). But then again, you need to take this seriously, especially in the presence of infants and/or pregnant women.

Answer 2

Mercury is not dangerous in it's liquid state, so there is no need for panic. Mercury will vaporize over time and the vapors are very dangerous to inhale, so you better clean up.
If you for instance break it while cleaning it in the sink, the mercury will get trapped in the sink airlock and give off mercury vapors for a very long time. Out of sight, is not out of danger.

Answer 3

Yes, Mercury is a volatile liquid. It evaporates readily at room temperatures. When it evaporated and becomes a gas Mercury is very dangerous to inhale. Be careful!

Answer 4

Actually, yes there is. Mercury is incredibly toxic - even in minute amounts. The breathing of mercury vapor causes it to be distributed around you body then taken to the brain where it will have an effect similar to "mad cow" disease.

Answer 5

Mercury isn't harmful when it's liquid, and it is liquid in the thermometer. It's only harmful when it's vapor, so, hopefully, you won't heat it up and inhale it ;)

Answer 6

yeah being that it's really hard to get all of it. i broke one and spent 2 hours cleaning it up and still didn't get all the mercury

Answer 7

Yes if you consume it.