Can you eat broken thermometer mercury?
Quick Answer
No
Mercury is a toxic substance. Ingesting it can lead to serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system, digestive system, and kidneys.
What Is It?
Mercury is a heavy, silvery-white liquid metal that is used in thermometers due to its high coefficient of expansion. When a thermometer breaks, this mercury can be exposed.
Why It Can Be Risky
Ingesting mercury poses serious health risks.
- Damage to the nervous system, which can lead to tremors, mood changes, and memory problems.
- Damage to the digestive system, leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Kidney damage, which can cause kidney failure in severe cases.
Safe Method?
If a thermometer breaks, avoid touching the mercury and immediately contact a local environmental or public health agency for guidance on cleanup and disposal.