Archaeologists are too scared to open up the 2,200-year-old tomb of China's first emperor Qin Shi Huang because they fear it might harbor deadly booby traps.
as being fantastical, a 2020 study found that mercury concentrations around the tomb are at significantly higher levels than to be expected.
"Highly volatile mercury may be escaping through cracks, which developed in the structure over time, and our investigation supports ancient chronicle records on the tomb, which is believed never to have been opened/looted," says theThe formidable and ambitious Qin Shi Huang was the first to rule a unified China, and historical reports suggest he became obsessed with drinking mercury in a misguided quest for eternal life.
He often drank wine laced with mercury, and might have died of mercury poisoning at the age of 49, per theFears of mercury are not the only thing stopping archaeologists from excavating the tomb, as there are also concerns that this could damage it. The terracotta army and Qin Shi Huang's tomb complex are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remain some of the most significant archaeological discoveries in history.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Employer Debt Traps Violate Workers’ Rights, Federal Regulators SayLabor advocates say employer-driven debt is a form of illegal union-busting, and regulators appear poised to crack down.
Read more »
7 Money Traps College Students Should AvoidMany college students are managing money for the first time, and it can cost them. Here are several slip-ups to avoid.
Read more »
Philippines says China blocked, water-cannoned boat in S. China SeaThe Philippines on Sunday accused China's coast guard of blocking and water-cannoning a Philippine military supply boat in the South China Sea, condemning the 'excessive and offensive actions' against its vessels.
Read more »
Philippines, US slam China for blocking resupply of disputed South China Sea siteThe State Department has joined the Philippines in condemning 'dangerous actions' by China's coast guard in the latest flare-up of tensions over clashing territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Read more »
Gov. Abbott Blasted Over Border Buoys: 'Heinous Death Traps'ICYMI: Gov. Greg Abbott issued a press release Friday lauding Operation Lone Star for stopping 'criminals at President Biden's open border.' This week, two bodies were found in the Rio Grande, one of which was discovered stuck in the buoys.
Read more »
Philippines, U.S. slam China for blocking resupply of disputed South China Sea siteThe State Department has joined the Philippines in condemning “dangerous actions” by China’s coast guard in the latest flare-up of tensions over clashing territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Read more »