Features

• An incandescent light bulb produces light by heating a strip of metal. Mercury light bulbs, in contrast, run electricity through argon gas and a small amount of mercury vapor.
  
  

Function

• The properties of mercury light bulbs make them ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings. Mercury light bulbs are commonly used to light personal homes as well as schools, office buildings, gymnasiums, parks, parking lots and other public areas.
  
  

Benefits

• The properties of mercury light bulbs make them energy efficient and long lasting. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that, compared with incandescent bulbs, mercury light bulbs gobble up 75 percent less energy and can last 10 times longer.
  
  

Considerations

• Mercury is a toxic element, making mercury light bulbs potentially hazardous after they burn out. However, recycling plants and waste management plants can help you dispose of them properly.
  
  

Fun Fact

• Because they reduce the demand on power plants, mercury light bulbs help prevent air pollution: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that every CFL, a type of mercury light bulb, prevents about 400 lbs. of greenhouse gas emissions.