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How does mercury form liquid alloys called amalgams?

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Periodic table — zinc group element Modern version of the periodic table of the elements (printable).

An amalgam is an alloy formed by mercury and one or more other metals. Mercury is unique as the only elemental metal that is liquid at room temperature, which allows it to readily dissolve other metals such as copper, tin, zinc, silver, and gold.12

While most amalgams are crystalline in structure, those with a high mercury content remain liquid. These alloys are formed through the process of dissolution; for example, gold and silver dissolve readily when agitated with mercury. In industrial applications, such as the production of chlorine and sodium hydroxide, mercury acts as a cathode that dissolves liberated sodium to create a liquid amalgam.12

Because mercury is toxic, it is essential to handle these materials with extreme caution, adhering to strict safety and environmental standards to prevent exposure or contamination.2