Lead(II,IV) oxide facts for kids
Lead(II,IV) oxide is a special chemical compound. It's also known by other names like red lead or minium. You might find it in things like batteries, some paints, and even certain types of glass. It's a mix of lead and oxygen atoms.
Contents
What is Red Lead?
Red lead is a chemical compound made of lead and oxygen. Its chemical formula is Pb3O4. This means each tiny bit of red lead has three lead atoms and four oxygen atoms. It's called "red lead" because of its bright reddish-orange color.
This compound is special because it has lead atoms in two different "states" or forms. Some lead atoms are in a +2 oxidation state, and others are in a +4 oxidation state. Think of it like having two different types of lead atoms working together in one compound.
How Red Lead is Made
Red lead is created by heating another chemical called lead(II) oxide in the air. When lead(II) oxide gets hot enough, it combines with oxygen from the air to form red lead. It can also dissolve in acids.
Uses of Red Lead
Red lead has been used for a long time in different ways:
- Paints: It was once a common pigment, giving paints a bright red or orange color. It was also used in special paints to protect metal from rust.
- Batteries: It can be found in some types of batteries.
- Glass: It's sometimes used in making certain kinds of glass.
Safety Note
It's important to know that red lead contains lead. Lead can be harmful if it gets into your body. Because of this, its use in paints and other products has been reduced or stopped in many places to keep people safe.
Images for kids
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Minium from a mine fire at Broken Hill, Australia
See also
In Spanish: Tetróxido de plomo para niños
