What is lead?
Lead is a naturally occurring bluish-gray metal found in small amounts in the earth’s crust. It has no characteristic taste or smell. Metallic lead does not dissolve in water and does not burn. It can combine with other chemicals to form lead compounds or lead salts. Some lead salts can dissolve in water. It is known to be harmful to humans if inhaled or ingested. Because of the use of lead in manmade products, including past use as a gasoline additive, it has become widespread in the environment. Lead can be found in the air, in the water, and on land. • What are the uses of lead? Lead has many uses. Lead is found in some types of batteries and is used in the production of ammunition, sheet lead, solder, some brass and bronze products, pipes, paints, medical equipment, and some ceramic glazes. Lead was also found in the chemicals added to gasoline to increase octane ratings, but its use was banned in 1996. • What happens to lead when it enters the environment? When released to land, l
Lead is a highly toxic metal used for many years in products found in and around the home. While there are many sources of lead, the one of most common concern is lead-based paint found in many older homes. The federal government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978, and some states stopped its use even earlier.
