Lead is the heaviest element in Group 14 of the periodic table, a group often known as the carbon family. Lead has an atomic number of 82, and atomic mass of 207.2, and a chemical symbol of Pb.

Properties

Lead is a heavy, soft, gray solid that is both ductile and malleable. The metal has a shiny surface when it is first cut, but it slowly tarnishes and becomes dull as it reacts with oxygen in the air. Lead is easily bent, cut, pulled, and otherwise worked to produce specific shapes. The melting point of lead is 621.3°F (327.4°C), its boiling point is about 3,180°F (about 1,750°C), and its density is 11.34 grams per cubic centimeter. Lead is not a good conductor of electricity, heat, sound, or vibrations. It is a moderately active metal that dissolves very slowly in water and in most cold acids.

Occurrence and Extraction