Can liquid mercury break metal?

Liquid mercury itself is not capable of breaking metal. However, it can form an alloy with certain metals, particularly those that are reactive with mercury, such as aluminum or iron. When mercury comes into contact with these metals, it can form an amalgam, which is a type of alloy.

Liquid mercury itself is not capable of breaking metal. However, it can form an alloy with certain metals, particularly those that are reactive with mercury, such as aluminum or iron. When mercury comes into contact with these metals, it can form an amalgam, which is a type of alloy.

In the case of certain metals like aluminum, the formation of an amalgam can weaken the metal's structure over time, potentially leading to its degradation or failure under stress. This process is known as liquid metal embrittlement.

Liquid mercury can also cause corrosion in certain metals, particularly those that are susceptible to attack by mercury. However, the direct breaking of metal by liquid mercury is not a typical phenomenon.