The Beware of Claims About Red Liquid Mercury: A Fraudulent Substance
Understanding the Myth of Red Mercury
The term "red mercury" has long been a source of urban legends and scams. This so-called substance never existed beyond the realm of con artists and scammers who often try to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers, particularly in the arms black market. Claims about its properties and value are nothing more than fraudulent deceits aimed at trapping victims.
The Myth and Reality of Red Mercury
Claims about red mercury as a substance for use in nuclear weapons or other high-tech military applications are entirely fictitious. The concept of "red mercury" was first introduced in the 1980s as a hoax perpetuated by con men. These fraudsters would advertise it as an invaluable component for developing advanced weaponry. However, all the samples tested turned out to be common substances with no real significance to nuclear technology.
The Actual Price and Form of Mercury
While the idea of red mercury is a fabrication, actual mercury's specifications and value are well understood. If you were to inquire about the price of mercury, it would be measured in grams, not by a mythical color. Mercury exists as a liquid metal and is known to be red when in the form of cinnabar, a common mineral, not liquid mercury.
The nominal price for mercury (in a typical market scenario) can range from approximately $20 to $40 per kilogram, depending on its form and purity. Therefore, when someone specifies a price of $100,000 to $300,000 per kilogram for red mercury, it should raise serious red flags. This price is far higher than what one might expect for genuine mercury.
The Toxicity and Uses of Mercury
Misinformation about mercury often stems from its toxic nature, which is well-documented. Mercury is a naturally occurring element and is present in many environmental and household items. It is toxic and can lead to severe health issues if mishandled. For example, exposure can occur through wounds, inhalation, or ingestion. The severe symptoms of mercury poisoning can affect the nervous system, liver, and kidneys.
Mercy has core uses in various industries due to its unique properties such as its conductivity and density. In the past, it was commonly used in thermometers, electrical switches, and other scientific instruments. However, due to safety concerns, mercury has become less used in personal thermometers. In 2008, 13 states in the U.S. had laws that restricted the sale and distribution of mercury-based fever thermometers.
The Process of Extracting Mercury
Mercury, typically found in the ore cinnabar, goes through a process to extract it. The ore is ground and heated to about 1076 degrees Fahrenheit (580 degrees Celsius) where oxygen is present. Mercury vapor escapes, and sulfur dioxide is removed. The metal is then condensed and purified with nitric acid before being distilled, making it safe for use and handling.
Mercury can also form amalgams when mixed with other metals like gold, silver, zinc, and cadmium. These amalgams are used in the processing of gold. Mercury can dissolve gold, allowing for the separation of the two substances. The process involves the use of a mercury-gold alloy to extract gold from rocks, which is then separated by distillation.
Common Mercury Compounds
Beyond its metal form, mercury exists in various compounds, such as mercuric chloride (HgCl2) and mercurous chloride (Hg2Cl2). Mercuric chloride, a highly toxic salt, was used historically as a wound disinfectant, while mercurous chloride, or calomel, was an antiseptic used to kill bacteria. Another compound, mercury sulfide (HgS), is used in the pigment vermilion, and mercuric oxide (HgO) is employed in mercury batteries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, any claim regarding the red mercury substance and its alleged pricing is pure fiction. If such claims are encountered, they should be ignored. Understanding the real nature of mercury and its typical uses can help prevent falling prey to such scams. Always verify information from reputable sources and stay alert to alarming prices or claims involving alleged high-tech uses of mercury.