disasters

2023 Turkey earthquake response

On 6 February 2023, two strong earthquakes struck southern and central Turkey. The first earthquake is considered the most powerful one to have ever hit Turkey (comparable with 1939 Erzincan earthquake). Current casualty estimates: 44,400+ dead, 108,000+ injured in Turkey 6,750+ dead, 14,500+ injured in Syria (Updated 27 February 2023, at 10:00 UTC) Selected footage published across social media:

A pound coin floating in mercury

Mercury is a chemical element. It is a metal, but has peculiar physical properties. It’s one of few metals that is liquid in standard temperature and pressure (imagine normal room temperature conditions). Mercury is commonly known as quicksilver. Other than its cool sounding name (almost like a superhero, Captain Quicksilver), and interesting physical properties, mercury and most of its compounds are toxic. Mercury poisoning can be a result of vapors