Mercury is a metal that is toxic to living organisms. It exists in several forms, some of which occur naturally in the environment. Metallic or elemental Mercury — an odorless, shiny, silver-white liquid — is commonly used in thermometers, barometers and fluorescent light bulbs. Metallic Mercury is extremely dangerous with a few drops generating enough fumes to contaminate the air in a room. Furthermore, skin contact with the metal results in the absorption of Mercury into the blood stream and potential health problems.