We explain what lead is and the different properties of this chemical element. Also, its uses and where it can be found.
What is lead?
Lead is a chemical element symbol Pb (from Latin plumbum) Y atomic number 82 in the Periodic table. It is a very particular metallic element, given its enormous flexibility and chemical reaction capacity, of enormous use in human industries.
Lead was discovered early by mankind and long used in the manufacture of weapons, tools and artistic objects. Due to its elastic properties and its ability to melt easily, it was used in writing sheets, as a coating for pipes and bathtubs, or in the manufacture of masks, medallions, etc.
In its common state lead is a metal solid, heavy, dense and bluish-gray in color, with various isotopes (stable and radioactive) and high levels of toxicity. The latter has questioned its use in various fields, such as plumbing, since this element is absorbed in different ways and causes specific neurotoxic, renal, cardiovascular, hematological and gastrointestinal damage.
Lead Properties
Lead is a flexible element that melts very easily (it melts at 327.4 ºC and also boils at 1725 ºC), whose usual valences are 2 and 4. It is partially resistant to sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, and is capable of preventing the passage of subatomic particles that emits radioactive material, which is why it is used to store these materials, as well as for shielding in industries that use radioactive compounds.
Lead is highly reactive, which allows its use in various compounds, such as tetraethyl lead or lead silicates, or in various alloys possible.
Uses of lead
Lead is extremely useful in human industries. It was used extensively in the manufacture of pipes, conduits, and other household spare parts, although for some time it has been replaced by others. metals Y plastics to avoid its consequences on the Human health. The same is done with containers for radioactive material and other chemical substances hazardous, or even as a coating for electrical connections.
Other uses of lead see it as a component for the manufacture of ceramics, plastics and alloys for soldering.Ammunition for military weapons and battery contacts (batteries). In addition, many lead-based compounds are used as stabilizers of the heat and the light on certain plastics. Some lead salts are used as insecticides and lead oxide is used many times to improve the magnetic properties of magnets.
Where is lead found?
Lead is relatively abundant in the earth's crust, although never in its elemental state. It is commonly found in the earth's crust as lead sulfide, part of the mineral known as galena.
Lead is commonly found in the form of phosphates (pyromorphite), carbonates (cerussite), sulfates (anglesite), and numerous oxides. It is also possible to find it as a consequence of the radioactive decay of radioactive materials, so it is common that it is associated with uranium (U) and thorium (Th).