Why are Mercury thermometers poisonous?

Answer 1

It is only toxic if the Mercury gas is inhaled. Which can only occur if it breaks. Mercury thermometers can offer very accurate readings for basal temperatures which can be beneficial in determining thyroid malfunction or ovulation.

Answer 2

This because of Mercury.

When Mercury is exposed to air, it will react with Oxygen and form Mercury-Oxide.

Mercury oxide is a toxic substance which can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion. The substance is irritating to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract and may have effects on the kidneys, resulting in kidney impairment. In the food chain important to humans, bioaccumulation takes place, specifically in aquatic organisms. The substance is banned as a pesticide by the EU government

Mercury can be absorbed through skin.

It is not likely that one will be severly poisoned if one touch it, but repeated exposure makes it a high risk because it accumulates in the body. It takes a really long time to get rid of it if you get it in your body.

Answer 3

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal and can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. If a mercury thermometer breaks, the mercury can vaporize and be inhaled, increasing the risk of mercury poisoning. It is important to handle and dispose of mercury-containing items properly to prevent exposure to this toxic substance.

Answer 4

They aren't as long as they don't get broken. If they do break, though, they contain mercury, which is a heavy metal and causes all the usual heavy metal poisoning symptoms.