Lead (Pb): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Lead is element 82 on the periodic table, a post-transition metal. At room temperature it is a solid. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DLead quick facts
| Atomic number | 82 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pb |
| Atomic mass | 207.2 |
| Category | Post-Transition Metal |
| Group and period | Group 14, period 6 |
| Block | p-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p² |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 4 |
| Discovered | Ancient times |
What is lead used for?
- Lead-acid car batteries
- Radiation shielding in X-ray rooms
- Ammunition
Interesting facts about lead
- Roman lead pipes introduced lead to drinking water. Some historians blame the fall of Rome partly on lead poisoning
- There is no safe level of blood lead. Even tiny amounts cause measurable IQ reduction in children
- Three of the four natural decay chains, including those of uranium-238 and uranium-235, end at stable lead
Lead has been known since ancient times, long before anyone could call it an element.
Where lead sits on the periodic table
Lead is in group 14, period 6. Tap any element to open its page.
Other post-transition metals
Lead questions
What is the atomic number of lead?
Lead has atomic number 82, so every lead atom has 82 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Pb and its atomic mass is 207.2.
Is lead a metal?
Lead is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a post-transition metal, found in group 14, period 6.
What is the electron configuration of lead?
The electron configuration of lead is [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p². Its electrons sit in 6 shells: 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 4.
What is lead used for?
Lead is used for lead-acid car batteries, radiation shielding in x-ray rooms and ammunition.
Who discovered lead?
Lead has been known since ancient times, long before anyone could call it an element.
The 3D Periodic Table is made by Julian Neagu, a solo founder in London, as part of VisionVix Simulators. It is free to use in the browser on desktop and phone, with no sign-up.