Mercuric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mercuric
[məˈkjʊərɪk ]
Definitions
chemical element
Relating to or containing mercury, especially with a valence of two.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mercuric |
Duplicate entry, see above. |
| mercurial |
Used in everyday language to describe someone whose moods change very quickly. It can also refer to something that is erratic or unpredictable. The term can have a slightly negative connotation when referring to someone's personality.
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| mercurous |
Specific to scientific or chemical contexts, referring to compounds containing mercury with a valence of +1. Like 'mercuric,' it is not commonly used outside of these contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Mercuric chloride is a toxic compound used in some laboratory experiments.
- The mercuric oxide battery was commonly used in the past.
- Exposure to mercuric compounds can lead to serious health issues.
chemistry
Having a valence of two; bivalent.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mercuric |
Used in scientific and technical contexts, especially in chemistry, to refer to compounds containing mercury with a valence of two. Often found in discussions about toxicology and environmental science due to mercury's hazardous nature.
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| bivalent |
Typically employed in a scientific context, particularly in chemistry and biology, to indicate elements, ions, or molecules with a valence of two. This term is often used in genetics to refer to paired homologous chromosomes.
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| divalent |
Used interchangeably with 'bivalent' in scientific discussions, particularly in chemistry, to describe elements with a valence of two. It might be slightly more common in chemical literature compared to 'bivalent'.
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Examples of usage
- The mercuric ion has a charge of +2.
- Mercuric compounds are often used in industrial processes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health and Medicine
- Compounds containing mercury have been used in traditional medicine, but their toxicity has led to many restrictions.
- Mercury is utilized in some vaccines as a preservative, sparking debate over safety and health.
- Mercuric chloride was once common in some treatments for syphilis before safer alternatives were developed.
Environment
- Mercury contamination is a serious environmental issue, especially in water bodies where it can affect fish and wildlife.
- Industrial processes can release mercuric compounds into the air, contributing to pollution and health risks for humans.
- Safe disposal and proper regulation are critical in preventing harmful effects associated with mercuric pollution.
Chemistry
- In the periodic table, mercury is element number 80 and is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
- Mercuric compounds can react with other chemicals, often forming complexes that have various industrial applications.
- Mercuric oxide is used in batteries and as a reagent in laboratories in specific chemical reactions.
Cultural References
- Historically, people believed that mercury had mystical properties, using it in alchemy to transmute metals.
- In literature, the metaphorical use of 'mercury' often points to something elusive or quicksilver in nature.
- Some cultures have traditional stories where mercury is linked to health and ill fortune, reflecting its dual nature.
Origin of 'mercuric'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'mercuric' comes from 'mercury,' which has its roots in Latin, meaning 'liquid silver.'
- Historically, mercury was associated with the Roman god Mercury, known for speed and eloquence, hence the name.
- In chemistry, 'mercuric' specifically refers to compounds where mercury has a +2 oxidation state.
The word 'mercuric' originates from the Latin word 'mercurius', which refers to the Roman god Mercury. Mercury was associated with speed, communication, and commerce in Roman mythology. The term 'mercuric' has been used in the context of chemistry and chemical elements, particularly in relation to compounds containing mercury with a valence of two. The use of mercuric compounds has declined due to their toxic nature and harmful effects on health and the environment.