What is lead?
lead is a metal chemical element that is classified as poor metals of periodic tables of elements. It has a wide range of historical and current applications and many consumers of their own products that contain them. This element usually does not appear in pure form in nature; It is extracted from Galena, a mineral with a high lead content, through the melting process. Lead is sometimes also connected in nature with silver and gold, two other highly useful metals.
people have been using lead for thousands of years. Because this metal is extremely soft, it is very easy to work and the early metal could handle minimal heat. Numerous cultural artifacts contain lead, often in the form of metal alloys, and the elders were obviously very familiar with metal, although unfortunately not with its negative health effects. One of its most famous historical uses was the Roman plumbing and tin, an alloy that was used to produce many domestic goods, including the advance and plate.
When lead is freshly insulated, it is a light, silver metal. However, the exposure to the air quickly causes it to intervene and gets a dull gray color that is known to many people. The element is soft enough to be cut with scissors or knife, and has a very low melting point. It also becomes resistant to many corrosion. The lead has an atomic number 82 and is identified on the periodic table of elements with PB symbol. If you are wondering what the letters "P" and "B" common with L-E-A-D, "PB" refers to the Latin name, plumbum ; The English name seems to be a Celtic origin.
Use for lead is innumerable. Resistance to corrosion and trade makes it a popular alloy additive and is also used in bullets, solder material, shields and some colors. Lead is also historically used as an ingredient in a glass that is why some antique and modern glass is not safe to eat or drink. It was also the material of the choice for movingType from 1400, when Gutenberg invented to today's moved press of moving type; Several foundry still occupation of the type of lead and other equipment for use with letterpress pressures.
Many people are aware that this element is toxic. Lead is a neurotoxin, so it attacks the brain and spinal cord. Because it is bioaccumulating in the body, someone may suffer from lead poisoning slowly without being aware of what is happening. When someone represents neurological problems for doctors or hospital, the poisoning of this metal is sometimes on the list of suspects.