Atomic Number: 82
Relative Atomic Mass: 207.2

Appearance
Lead is a soft, weak, ductile metal with a pale grey sheen

Source
Lead is obtained chiefly from the mineral Galena by the roasting process. At least 40% of Lead in the UK comes from secondary sources such as scrap batteries and pipes.

Uses
Lead is very resistant to corrosion - Lead pipes from Roman times are still in use today - and is often used to store corrosive metals. Great quantities of Lead, both as the metal and the dioxide, are used in batteries. Lead is also used in cable covering, plumbing and ammunition. Tetraethyl Lead is used as an anti-knock agent in petrol, and as an additive in paints. The use of Lead in plumbing, paints and petrol has been significantly reduced over the past few years due to environmental concerns, and the cumulative effects on brain development in young children. Lead is an effective shield for x-ray machines and nuclear reactors. Lead oxide is used in the manufacture of fine crystal glass.

General Information
Lead is stable in air and water, but will tarnish in moist air over long periods. It dissolves in Nitric acid. It is a poor conductor of electricity.