Zinc has the symbol Zn.
Atomic Number = 30, Atomic Mass = 65.39, 30 protons, 30 electrons,
First isolated by
Most common uses:
The alloy brass contains copper and anywhere from 20-45% of
zinc, depending upon the type of brass. Brass is easy to work
and is a good electrical conductor.
A large proportion of all zinc, perhaps more than a third,
is used used to galvanize metals such as iron so as to prevent
corrosion. Typically this involves dipping the object to be coated
in molten zinc for a short time
The oxide (ZnO) is used in the manufacture of paints, rubber
products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, floor coverings, plastics,
printing inks, soap, textiles, electrical equipment, and other
products. It is also used in ointments.
Zinc is a bluish-white, lustrous metal. It is brittle at ambient
temperatures but is malleable at 100 to 150°C. It is a reasonable
conductor of electricity.
The density of zinc is 7.140 g/mL, which means the metal will
sink in water and is relatively heavy.
Most zinc production is based upon sulfide ores. These are
roasted in industrial plants to form zinc oxide, ZnO. This may
then be reduced with carbon to form zinc metal.
Zinc burns in air at high red heat with evolution of white
clouds of the zinc oxide.
The graphic on the left shows an exothermic reaction of zinc
metal and iodine element reacting to form zinc iodide.