Lead is a chemical element with the symbol Pb (from Latin plumbum) and atomic number 82. It is a heavy metal that is denser than most common materials, soft, malleable, and has a relatively low melting point of about 327.5 °C (621.5 °F)

. Lead appears as a bluish-gray metal that tarnishes to dull gray when exposed to air due to oxidation

. Lead is naturally found in small amounts in the earth's crust, often combined with other minerals such as sulfur, zinc, and copper. Its principal ore is galena (lead sulfide)

. Historically, lead has been known and used since ancient times, with significant use in ancient Rome and a resurgence during the Industrial Revolution

. It is relatively unreactive but can form compounds mostly in the +2 oxidation state. Lead has been widely used due to its high density, malleability, corrosion resistance, and ability to absorb sound, vibration, and radiation

. Common applications include lead-acid batteries, radiation shielding, ammunition, solders, plumbing, paints, and weights

. However, lead is a potent neurotoxin that accumulates in soft tissues and bones, damaging the nervous system and interfering with biological enzymes. Exposure to lead poses serious health risks, especially to children, causing developmental issues and long-term harm to adults including kidney damage and cardiovascular problems

. Due to its toxicity, the use of lead is now heavily regulated and restricted in many products. In summary, lead is a dense, soft, and malleable heavy metal with useful industrial properties but significant health hazards due to its toxicity