About this element
Symbol: Zn
Date of discovery: 1746
Name origin: German zink
Appearance: blue-white
Discoverer: Andreas Marggraf
Obtained from: zinc blende, calamine
Melting point: 692 K
Boiling point: 1180 K
Density[kg/m3]: 7140
Molar volume: 9.16 × 10-6 m3/mol
Protons/Electrons: 30
Neutrons: 35
Shell structure: 2,8,18,2
Electron configuration: [Ar]3d104s2
Oxidation state: 2,3
Crystal structure: hexagonal
Zinc alloys have been used for centuries; although, A. Marggraf is credited for the first isolation of zinc from the charcoal reduction of calamine in 1746. This bluish-white metal is brittle at ambient temperatures, but becomes malleable between 110–150°C. It is an essential element in the growth of plants and animals, and altered biological concentrations of zinc can lead to severe health problems. Zinc’s principle use is to galvanize iron and steel, preventing corrosion. It is also used to form numerous metal alloys such as brass, bronze, and aluminum solder. Zinc oxide is used in plastics, cosmetics, and wallpaper, while zinc sulfide is employed in luminescent dials, TV screens, and fluorescent lights.