The density of lead is 11.34 g/cm³, which is equivalent to 11340 kg/m³.
Knowing the density of lead is important
Understanding the density of lead is crucial in engineering, materials science, and environmental applications.
Density is a key physical property for identifying and selecting materials for specific applications.
In engineering, knowing the density of lead helps in calculating mass, weight, and volume to ensure that components meet the requirements when subjected to load, balance forces, or function under specific conditions (for example, in weight-sensitive structures).
Lead is commonly used in casting or molding, and understanding its density helps control material usage during manufacturing, ensuring the right amount of material is used and the final product meets design specifications.
In certain applications (such as in vehicles, ships, or aircraft), knowing the density of lead helps in planning and optimizing weight distribution, improving performance and safety.
Factors Affecting the Density of Lead
The density of lead is mainly influenced by factors such as temperature, purity, pressure, and crystal structure.
These factors must be considered in practical applications to ensure the performance and reliability of lead.
Temperature: As temperature increases, lead expands, causing its density to decrease. Conversely, when the temperature decreases, lead contracts, and its density increases. Therefore, temperature variations must be taken into account when measuring the density of lead at different temperatures.
Purity: The purity of lead directly affects its density. Pure lead has a density of about 11.34 g/cm³, but if the lead contains impurities or alloys, its density may change. For example, lead alloys containing other metals (such as antimony or copper) may have different densities.
Pressure: Under extremely high pressure, a material’s volume may compress, resulting in an increase in density. Although the density of lead does not change significantly under normal conditions, at extreme pressures (such as in high-pressure laboratory conditions), the density of lead may increase.
In summary, understanding the density of lead is essential for effective material utilization, safe operation, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Comparing the Density of Lead with Other Metals
Lead has a medium to high density compared to common metals but is lower than metals like gold, uranium, and tungsten.
Here is a comparison of lead’s density with that of some other metals:
| Metal | Density (g/cm³) | Description |
| Lead | 11.34 | Relatively high density, commonly used for radiation shielding and ballast |
| Gold | 19.32 | Extremely high density, primarily used in jewelry and electronics |
| Uranium | 18.95 | High density, widely used in nuclear energy applications |
| Aluminum | 2.7 | Lightweight metal, widely used in aviation and transportation |
| Copper | 8.96 | Relatively high density, excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance |
| Iron | 7.87 | Moderate density, widely used in construction and manufacturing |
| Tungsten | 19.25 | One of the highest densities, used in high-strength alloys and applications requiring high-temperature resistance |
| Nickel | 8.9 | Moderate density, used in stainless steel and alloys |
| Zinc | 7.14 | Lighter than lead, used for corrosion-resistant coatings and alloys |
| Silver | 10.49 | High density, commonly used in jewelry and currency |
| Cobalt | 8.9 | Moderate density, used in magnetic alloys and high-temperature alloys |
