Most of us are probably familiar with that funny, liquid metal mercury, perhaps from schooldays, but it would be unwise to spend much time in its company because it can be insidiously poisonous. Despite this, it and its compounds have had a wide range of uses. So where does it come from and what were those uses - or abuses? What is its connection with gold and can it be turned into gold like kings and alchemists hoped?
Views: 858 | Enquiries: 2My working life was spent as an industrial chemist and I have enjoyed a variety of other interests about which I now make presentations. I’ve always been particularly fascinated by the ingenuity and brilliance of humans over history to develop resources and shape them to our own needs, be it for great good or to terrible ends, and sometimes for both, as accepted wisdom and circumstances have often changed over time and we view the world differently. Operating within about one hour’s drive from home, I nowadays present a variety of illustrated talks - long, short or emergency notice is possible - on various topics with, when appropriate, a degree of humour attached. I have found that I rather look forward to questions from my audience at the end of the talks as they can often reveal some fascinating further details and discussion. It’s good to meet and talk!
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