What is the chemical symbol for lead?
AnswerPb
Lead's symbol is Pb, an abbreviation taken from its Latin name rather than its English one.
Science · Facts & stats
Lead facts & stats
7 fact-checked facts about the element lead, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.
The basics
Why do protective aprons used during X-rays often contain lead?
AnswerLead blocks X-rays well
Lead's dense atoms absorb X-rays effectively, so it is widely used for radiation shielding.
Going deeper
A plumb line, traditionally a lead weight on a string, is used to find what?
AnswerA true vertical
A hanging weight points straight down toward Earth's center, showing a true vertical line.
Which common type of rechargeable battery, used to start many cars, contains lead?
AnswerLead-acid battery
Lead-acid batteries use lead plates in sulfuric acid and have been used in cars for over a century.
Why was lead phased out of household paint and petrol in many countries?
AnswerIt is toxic
Lead is poisonous, especially to children, so its use in paint and petrol was restricted.
Expert level
Which element has the highest atomic number of any element with stable isotopes?
AnswerLead
Every element heavier than lead, starting with bismuth, has only radioactive isotopes, though some decay extremely slowly.
Lead melts at about what temperature?
Answer327°C
Lead melts at about 327°C, far lower than aluminum (660°C), gold (1,064°C) or iron (1,538°C).
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