Zinc
Zinc
Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It belongs to the transition metals and is a brittle, bluish-white metal. Zinc was discovered in the 16th century in India and China and played an important role in the development of metallurgy.
Properties of Zinc
- Atomic Number: 30
- Symbol: Zn
- Atomic Mass: 65.38 u
- Group: Transition metals
- State at Room Temperature: Solid
- Density: 7.14 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 419.5 °C
- Boiling Point: 907 °C
Discovery and History
Zinc was used in ancient times, but it was not recognized as a distinct element until the 16th century. The earliest evidence of zinc usage comes from India and China, where it was used to produce brass. In 1746, Andreas Sigismund Marggraf first isolated pure zinc by distilling zinc ore.
Applications and Uses
Zinc has a wide range of applications across various industries:
- Corrosion Protection: Zinc is commonly used for galvanizing steel to prevent corrosion, especially in construction and automotive industries.
- Alloys: Zinc is a key component in alloys such as brass (zinc and copper) and tin bronze (zinc and tin).
- Batteries: Used in the production of batteries, especially zinc-carbon and zinc-air batteries.
- Health: Zinc is an essential trace element for the human body, playing a vital role in the immune system, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
- Paints and Pigments: Zinc oxide is used in paints, pigments, and sunscreens.
Safety Measures
Zinc in metallic form is non-toxic and safe to handle. However, zinc fumes released at high temperatures can be harmful and may cause metal fume fever. Appropriate safety measures should be taken to minimize exposure