Lead (Pb)
Lead (Pb, element 82) is a post-transition metal in group 14, period 6. Atomic mass 207.2, electron configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p², uses and facts.
About Lead
Lead is a post-transition metal with the symbol Pb and atomic number 82. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 14, period 6 of the periodic table. Lead has been known since antiquity.
Lead key facts
- Atomic number: 82
- Symbol: Pb
- Atomic mass: 207.2 u
- Category: post-transition metal
- Group: 14
- Period: 6
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p²
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 2.33
- Melting point: 600.61 K (327.46 °C)
- Boiling point: 2022 K (1748.85 °C)
- Density: 11.34 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: −4, −2, 0, +2, +4
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of lead is [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p². The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells. Lead has 4 valence electrons.
Uses of lead
- Batteries
- Radiation shielding
- Ammunition
Did you know?
Romans used lead pipes for plumbing (hence 'plumber' from 'plumbum'). Some historians blame Rome's fall on lead poisoning.
Other elements in group 14 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of lead?
The atomic number of lead is 82, which means every lead atom has 82 protons.
What is the electron configuration of lead?
The electron configuration of lead is [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p².
What group and period is lead in?
Lead is a post-transition metal in group 14, period 6.
What state is lead at room temperature?
Lead is a solid at room temperature.
What is lead used for?
Lead is used for batteries, radiation shielding, ammunition.