atmospheric mercury

Atmospheric mercury refers to mercury particles and vapors suspended in the air. It mainly originates from human activities like burning coal, manufacturing, and gold mining, as well as natural sources such as volcanoes and forest fires. Once released, mercury can travel long distances in the atmosphere before settling into water bodies or land. In water, mercury can convert into methylmercury, a toxic compound that bioaccumulates in fish and can harm wildlife and humans who consume contaminated seafood. Understanding atmospheric mercury is important because it affects environmental health and public safety.