Overview

Zinc oxide (ZINC OX-side) is a white to gray to yellowish powder with no odor but a bitter taste. It occurs in nature as the mineral zincite. Zinc oxide is perhaps best known as an ingredient in cosmetics, personal care products, medicines, and sunscreens. In terms of volume, however, a number of industrial applications are of greater importance.

How It Is Made

Three commercial methods of preparation are available for zinc oxide. Two of these methods are known as thermal procedures because they involve heating either zinc metal or an ore of zinc to obtain zinc vapor. The zinc vapor is then reacted with oxygen to produce zinc oxide. The formula for this reaction is 2Zn + O₂ → 2ZnO

Key Facts

Other Names:

Chinese white; philosopher's wool; zinc white; flowers of zinc

Formula:

ZnO

Elements:

Zinc, oxygen

Compound Type:

Metallic oxide (inorganic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight: