Mercury is a naturally occurring metal that has been used in various forms for centuries. Here are some common uses of mercury:

• Dental Amalgam: Mercury has been used in dental fillings for many years, although its use has decreased in recent years due to concerns about its toxicity.

• Thermometers: Mercury has been used in thermometers for many years, although digital thermometers have largely replaced them due to concerns about mercury toxicity.

• Fluorescent Light Bulbs: Mercury is used in some types of fluorescent light bulbs, although newer bulbs contain less mercury than older ones.

• Electrical Switches: Mercury is used in some electrical switches, although alternatives are being developed due to concerns about mercury toxicity.

• Gold Mining: Mercury is used in artisanal and small-scale gold mining, which is a significant source of mercury pollution.

• Chemical Industry: Mercury is used in the chemical industry as a catalyst.

Although mercury has been used in many products and processes, its use is being phased out or reduced due to concerns about its toxicity. Exposure to mercury can cause a range of health effects, including irritation to the eyes, skin, and stomach, cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, insomnia, irritability, indecision, headache, weakness or exhaustion, and weight loss.