2007-02-08 13:33:57 · 2 answers · asked by Mary Jane 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Like Cadmium and Zinc, atoms in the same column on the periodic table, Mercury has a completely filled d-band. If you notice among transition metals, cadmium, zinc, and mercury have the lowest melting temperature.
Metallic bonding is stronger with a free electron spin in the d-band or s-band. Since, these elements have completely filled d-band and s-bands, there is less metallic bonding in these metals. Thus, it takes a lower temperature to melt them
melting point:
Mercury -39 C
Cadmium 321 C
Zinc 419 C
What makes mercury unique is that there is a completely filled f-orbital beneath the d orbital. This sets it apart from cadmium and zinc making the melting point even lower.
I would venture to guess that the still undiscovered "Element 112" directly beneath mercury is a liquid at room temperature as well.
2007-02-08 13:53:00 · answer #1 · answered by tedhyu 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Due to the fact it's freezing point is 234.32 K(-38.83 °C, -37.89 °F).
2007-02-08 13:39:14 · answer #2 · answered by drewbear_99 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋