Abstract

Mercury is the most beautiful element in the periodic table, and the most reviled. The only liquid metal, its unusual chemistry has opened a window to the invisible world of atoms and molecules. With videos and demonstrations, including the incredible mercury beating heart and the mysterious barometric light, chemist Andrea Sella explores the lore of mercury and tries to get to the heart of why we love it and hate it too.

Dr Andrea Sella is a synthetic inorganic Chemist with interests in the electronic structure of the lanthanide elements and the synthesis of superhard materials.

He is also a popularizer of chemistry contributing to series including Chemistry A Volatile History, The Secret Life of Chaos, Science and Islam and Gastronuts. He also writes Classic Kit, a historical column in RSC ’s Chemistry World. He currently holds an EPSRC Senior Media Fellowship.

The AGM of the SCI Cambridge & Great Eastern Section Committee will take place at 18:30, before the public lecture. Light refreshments will be provided.

Free admission to lecture.

Open to the public. Suitable for GCSE students.

No tickets, so arrive early to get a good seat.

Organised by SCI Cambridge & Great Eastern Region & RSC Mid-Anglia Section