LeadAndrew S.

Introduction

Lead:

- Is a bluish-white, shiny metal

- Stains to dull gray when it is exposed to air

- Is extremely soft

- Is a poor electricity conductor

- Is capable of being shaped and molded

- Is an increasing poison

- Does not corrode

Lead

Symbol: Pb

Atomic Number: 82

Atomic Weight: 207.2

Element Group: Metal

Melting Point: 600.65 °K/327.5 °C

Boiling Point: 2013 °K/1739.85 °C

Discovery: Known to the ancient world at least 7000 years ago

Discoverer: Unknown

Effects on Animals

Poisoned birds can lose ability to walk or fly, and can experience sever weight loss and eventually die

It affects the animal’s central nervous system It stops their ability to produce red blood cells

Effects on The Environment

Plants:

- Lead pollution covers the surface of the leaves making it less available to the light

- The plant eventually dies because of the lack of light and the reduced rate of photosynthesis

Micro-organisms:

- Lead can wipe out millions of bacteria and fungi on leaves and in the soil

Uses of Lead

Lead is used for:

- X Radiation shields

- Sound and Vibration Absorber

- Batteries

Interesting Facts

Lead dust is invisible and it is so tiny that it passes through masks and filters Lead poisoning causes learning and developmental disabilities

Children who look healthy can have high amounts of lead in their blood

Works Cited

Anne, Marie Helmenstine. “Lead.” Chemical & Physical Properties. 22 April 2010 <http://chemistry.about.com/od/elementfacts/a/lead.htm>

Greene, Demi. “Effects of lead on the environment.” LEAD Action News. 25 April 2010 <http://www.lead.org.au/lanv1n2/lanv1n2-8.html>

“Lead Facts.” Substance Fact Sheets. 25 April 2010 <http://www.dhss.mo.gov/hsees/lead.html>

“Lead Facts.” The Basics About Lead Paint. 25 April 2010 <http://www.leadpro.com/facts/html>

“Lead Fishing.” Anglers and Aquatic Resource Protection. 25 April 2010 <http://www.epa.gov/owow/fish/animals.html>