What is the Mercury switch?
The
mercury switch consists of a sealed glass tube containing two unconnected electrodes and a small amount of liquid mercury. As long as the liquid metal stays at the opposite end of the tube, the electrodes remain disconnected and no current will flow. However, as soon as the tube moves around a certain angle, the mercury will take place between two electrodes and the connection is lent. As a result, electricity flows through the completed circuit. As soon as the liquid metal returns to its original position, the electric current immediately stops.
The use of the mercury switch has become controversial in recent years. Mercury is considered a very dangerous substance, especially if it is evaporated. Mercury in its liquid form can be treated safely under controlled conditions, but accidental ingestion or skin contact can cause serious nerve damage or even death. For this reason, many manufacturers have begun to replace mercury switches with other mechanical methods of electricity. School classes of science also eliminate ExperimENTs that can expose students to mercury.
One common use of the mercury switch can be found in older room thermostats. The metal coil sensitive coil expands and contrasts according to the temperature of the surrounding room. The mercury switch is balanced at the end of this coil connected to the central heating and cooling system. If the room temperature rises beyond the preference range, the expanding coil causes the liquid mercury to move to the other side of the switch. This causes two electrodes to create a complete circuit, which in turn causes the cooling system to transmit colder air. As the coil in the thermostat contracts, the liquid metal eventually returns to the opposite end of the switch and the connection is broken.
Because the mercury switch is based on movement, some car manufacturers use them to active hood and stem lights. When the lid is elevated, the mercury switch tilts and the electrical connectedIt is carried out between the battery of the car and the bulb. Once the lid is closed, the liquid mercury returns to its original location and the light goes out. However, the dispute over the safety of mercury has forced many owners to change their old mercury switches in favor of mechanical. Some units of the refrigerator, such as chest freezers, can also use mercury switches in their lids.
Mercury switches are also popular as detonators in movement activated bombs. Any attempt to shake or move the explosive device causes mercury to complete the circuit between the detonator and the explosive charge. That is why the officers of the coercive bodies warn supporters not to touch or move suspicious packages. Explosive devices armed with mercury switch must be disposed of or moved without changing their original orientation.
Broken mercury scarecrow is considered toxic waste, so untrained and unprotected individuals should never try to remove them. If you find older behindControl or a thermostat with a broken switch, contact the local unit of hazardous materials. Car owners may also want to learn more about the safe removal of older mercury switches.