All practice pages/Interatomic theory/Elements
Element 82, a post-transition metal
A dense, soft metal used since ancient Rome, which gave us the word plumber, and a poison that harms children's brains.
Period 6, group 14. The other post-transition metals are tinted, and every cell opens its own article.
Four valence electrons, but lead usually gives up only its two 6p electrons to form Pb²⁺, while its two 6s electrons hold on. Chemists call this the inert pair effect.
Mined mostly as galena (PbS) in China, Australia, Peru and the United States, though more lead now comes from recycled batteries than from mines. It is the stable end point of the decay of uranium and thorium.
Known since ancient times; the Romans used it for water pipes, cooking pots and coins. The name is Old English, and the symbol Pb comes from its Latin name plumbum, the source of the word plumber.
Lead-acid batteries for cars, trucks and backup power use about 80% of it. Lead also shields against X-rays and radiation and goes into ammunition, weights and roofing. It was once used widely in gasoline, paint, solder and water pipes, uses that are now banned or restricted.
A cumulative poison that damages the brain and nervous system, especially in children, even at low levels. Lead leaching from old water pipes caused the Flint water crisis in Michigan in 2014.