Great quantities of lead, both as the metal and the dioxide, are used in batteries. Lead is also used in cable covering, plumbing and ammunition. Tetraethyl lead is used as an anti-knock agent in petrol, and as an additive in paints. The use of lead in plumbing, petrol and paints has been reduced in the past few years because of environmental concern, as lead is a cumulative poison and is thought to affect brain development and function, especially in young children. Lead is an effective shield around X-ray equipment and nuclear reactors.
Lead oxide is used in the production of fine crystal glass.
Biological Role Lead has no known biological role. It is toxic in a cumulative way, teratogenic and carcinogenic. General Information Lead is stable to air and water, but will tarnish in moist air over long periods. It dissolves in nitric acid. Lead is a poor conductor of electricity.