Question 1

Is gallium safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, gallium is safe to touch and will not harm your skin. However, do not ingest it.

Question 2

How do I melt my gallium to get it out of the test tube?

Accepted Answer

To turn your gallium from liquid to solid, submerge the test tube in a container of hot water (hotter than 85°F).

Question 3

Will gallium stain?

Accepted Answer

Gallium may temporarily stain your hands, but can be removed with soap and warm water. You can also wear gloves. It may also stain clothes or furniture, so be sure to put parchment paper, a plastic or wooden cutting board, or a metal (not aluminum) tray down before using gallium. If it does get on something, clean it with soap and warm water.

Question 4

Will gallium melt in my hands?

Accepted Answer

Yes, gallium has a melting point of 85°F, so it will melt in any temperature above that. The human body has a temperature of about 98°F, so it will melt in your hands. However, it may take a few minutes, so if you’re trying to melt your gallium it would be faster to do in a hot water bath.

Question 5

How do I get gallium marks off my hands?

Accepted Answer

Wash your hands with soap and warm water.

Question 6

How should I store my gallium?

Accepted Answer

It is best to store your gallium in the test tube it came in or another plastic container. Do not store it in glass, as gallium expands when it cools down and turns from liquid to solid, and it may break through the glass. If you created a gallium figure from mold or have solid gallium, you can keep it out, but remember that it will melt if it gets warmed up to 85°F.

Question 7

How do I get my gallium back into the test tube it came in?

Accepted Answer

If your gallium is liquid, use your syringe to put it back in the test tube. If it has turned solid, put it in a small container floating on top of a container of hot water (hotter than 85°F) until it melts back into a liquid. Then use your syringe to put it back in the test tube.

Frequently asked questions