The element possessing 82 electrons is Lead, symbolized as Pb. Electrons are subatomic particles that orbit an atom’s nucleus, and their number defines a neutral atom’s identity.
Identifying the Element
An element’s identity is defined by its atomic number, which represents the number of protons found within the nucleus of each atom. For a neutral atom, the number of electrons orbiting the nucleus is equal to its atomic number, balancing the positive charge of the protons. Lead has an atomic number of 82, meaning it contains 82 protons and 82 electrons. This unique count distinguishes lead from all other elements.
Properties and Uses of Lead
Lead is a soft, malleable, and dense metal, with a relatively low melting point of 327.5 degrees Celsius (621.5 degrees Fahrenheit). When freshly cut, it appears shiny with a bluish tint, but it quickly tarnishes to a dull gray upon exposure to air due to oxidation. Its resistance to corrosion has made it useful across centuries.
Historically, lead was used in ancient Roman plumbing systems, and some lead pipes from that era remain in service today. Its properties also made it suitable for roofing, coffins, and stained glass windows in medieval times. In modern applications, lead’s high density and ability to absorb electromagnetic radiation make it effective for radiation shielding in X-ray equipment and nuclear reactors. It is also widely used in lead-acid batteries for vehicles, which represents its largest current application.
Lead in Our World and Its Impact
Despite its many useful properties, lead is recognized as a toxic substance that can accumulate in the body and environment. Exposure to lead can occur through various sources, with lead-based paint in older homes built before 1978 being a significant concern, especially when it chips, peels, or is disturbed during renovations. Contaminated soil, often from the historical use of leaded gasoline or deteriorating paint, and lead-containing consumer products like certain glazes, toys, or traditional remedies also contribute to exposure. Lead can also contaminate drinking water through old lead pipes or solder.
Lead exposure can lead to a range of health issues, particularly affecting young children whose developing bodies absorb and retain more lead. Even low levels of exposure can impair intellectual development, causing learning difficulties, behavioral changes, and reduced intelligence. Higher levels of lead can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other organs, and in severe cases, lead to seizures, coma, or even death. Adults may experience high blood pressure, joint pain, and reproductive problems.
Efforts to reduce lead exposure include promoting lead-safe practices during renovations, regular cleaning to minimize lead dust, and ensuring clean water sources. Regulatory bodies continue to implement measures to control lead use and mitigate its presence in the environment.