Lead (Pb)

Atomic Number82
Atomic Mass207.21 u
CategoryPost-transition metal
Electron Config[Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p²
Appearancemetallic gray
Density (STP)11340 g/L
Melting Point600.61 K
Boiling Point2022 K
Electronegativity1.87 (Pauling)
Ionization Energy715.6 kJ/mol
Atomic Radius180 pm
Crystal StructureFace-centered Cubic
Discovered ByAncient civilizations (-4000)

Brief Introduction

Lead (Pb) is a heavy, soft, malleable, bluish-gray post-transition metal. It has the highest atomic number of any stable element. It is dense, ductile, and poorly conductive. Key details about Lead (Pb) are as follows:

Uses: Used in lead-acid batteries (vehicles, backup power), radiation shielding, ammunition, cable sheathing, and weighting applications. Historically used in plumbing, paints, and gasoline (now restricted due to toxicity).

Production/Extraction: Extracted from galena (lead sulfide) ore via roasting and smelting. China, Australia, and the U.S. are major producers. Recycling (especially from batteries) is a massive industry and primary source of supply.

History: Known since ancient times; ancient Romans used it extensively for plumbing (hence "plumbing" from Latin "plumbum"). Symbol Pb from "plumbum."

Health Effects & Safety: Potent neurotoxin that accumulates in soft tissues and bones. Causes neurological damage (especially in children), kidney failure, and anemia. No known safe level of exposure. Environmental regulations have significantly reduced its use in consumer products.

Price/Market: Relatively low price, traded on LME. Demand dominated by the battery industry. Recycling rate is one of the highest among all materials (>95% in many developed countries).

Properties: High density, low melting point (327.5°C), soft and malleable, corrosion-resistant, effective gamma radiation and X-ray shield, and exhibits +2 and +4 oxidation states.

← Thallium (Tl) · Bismuth (Bi) →

Periodic Table