The chemical symbol for the element mercury is Hg.
This symbol comes from the Latin word for mercury, which is hydrargyrum, meaning ‘water-silver’ due to its liquid state at room temperature and shiny appearance. Mercury is a unique metal that is liquid at room temperature, making it quite different from most other elements, which are solid. Mercury is used in various applications, including thermometers, barometers, and some types of batteries. Its properties and historical significance have made it an important element in both science and industry.