Description
A bluish-white, lustrous metallic element. Zinc occurs with an abundance of 0.02% in the earth's crust in the minerals smithsonite (ZnCO3), sphalerite (ZnS), zincite, willemite, and gahnite. Zinc was discovered in prehistoric times and it was first isolated from the ores in India in the 13th century by the reduction of calamine. China was mass producing zinc by the 16th century. In Europe, commercial production began after techniques for its isolation were discovered by Andreas Sigismund Marggraf in Germany in 1746. The malleable metal is ductile at 150 C, but becomes so brittle at 180 C that it can be powdered. It is most commonly used as an anti-corrosive galvanized coating for other metals. Metallic zinc is also used in alloys, such as brass, to increase workability. Zinc oxides are used in artists pigments, photocopiers, sunscreens, and antiseptic ointments. Zinc sulfides are used as phosphors in cathode ray tubes. Zinc containing pigments include zinc white, zinc yellow, and lithopone.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Zn; merrillite; Zink (Ned., Deut., Sven.); zinc (Fr;); zinco (It., Port.); cinc (Esp.)
| Zn (atomic no. = 30) |
| 7440-66-6 |
| 2.5 |
| 419.5 |
| at. wt. = 65.38 |
| 7.14 |
| 908 |
Other Properties
Reacts slowly with ammonia, water, acetic acid, sulfuric acid, or hydrochloric acid. Readily reacts with nitric acid and alkali hydroxides.
Burns in air with a bluish green flame.
Hazards and Safety
Powdered zinc is highly flammable and produces toxic fumes when burned.
LINK: International Chemical Safety Card
Additional Information
° Web Elements: Website
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Last updated on: 10/2/2007 8:58:11 AM
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