Lead (Pb)
Lead (Pb) is element 82, a post-transition metal. Atomic mass 207.2, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 82 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pb |
| Standard atomic weight | [206.14,207.94] |
| Category | Post-transition Metal |
| Group | 14 |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p² |
| Valence electrons | 4 |
| Common oxidation states | +2, +4 |
| Common ions | Pb²⁺, Pb⁴⁺ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.8 |
| First ionization energy | 716 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 35.12 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 180 pm |
| Density | 11.3 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 327.46°C |
| Boiling point | 1749°C |
| Specific heat | 0.13 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Pb-204: Stable
- Pb-206: Stable
- Pb-207: Stable
- Pb-208: Stable
Common uses
- Car batteries (Pb-acid)
- Radiation shielding
- Bullets
Where it matters
- Public Health (Flint Water Crisis)
- Environmental banning (Leaded gasoline)
Hazards
- Potent neurotoxin
- affects IQ in children
History
| Discovered | ~7000 BCE |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Ancient Civilizations |
| Name | Anglo-Saxon lead (Symbol Pb from Latin plumbum) |