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Zinc has physical properties similar to iron, is moderately reactive chemically, and is important for metabolism. It is brittle, less dense than iron, and forms a protective layer of zinc carbonate when exposed to the atmosphere. Zinc is used to make brass, which is germ-killing and used in hospitals and musical instruments. Zinc deficiency can stunt growth and hinder the immune system.
The properties of zinc vary depending on the context. Physically, zinc has similar properties to other related metals on the periodic table, such as iron. Brass is a malleable alloy composed of zinc and copper. Chemically, zinc shares properties with other group 12 elements and is moderately reactive. Biologically, the properties of zinc play an important role in metabolism, as many enzymes use zinc.
Zinc occurs as a silver or bluish-white metal. It may be glossy, but many grades have a matte finish. At everyday temperatures, one of the properties of zinc is brittleness. This means that when zinc is stretched or compressed, it tends to break rather than deform. Although zinc’s atomic weight is heavier than iron, it is less dense and, therefore, feels lighter.
A common zinc-based alloy is brass. Brass is made by mixing zinc and copper, typically with more copper than zinc. It looks like a shiny gold or yellow colored metal. It is used for applications that require low friction contact between surfaces. Brass tends to kill germs, so brass doorknobs are often used in hospitals to improve hygiene. It is also widely used to make musical instruments.
The chemical properties of zinc are similar to other group 12 elements such as cadmium and mercury. Like these other elements, zinc has relatively low melting and boiling points. Zinc is somewhat reactive, meaning it will react chemically with air and water. When pure zinc is exposed to the atmosphere, it will react with carbon dioxide to form a protective layer of zinc carbonate. The chemical properties of zinc are used in fireworks to create smoke effects.
The biological properties of zinc, on the other hand, are important for public health. In fact, zinc is found in a wide variety of organisms. The element is used in many enzymes, which are proteins that affect the rate of certain chemical reactions. Enzymes are important for maintaining chemical balance in an organism. In the human body, zinc plays a vital role in the brain and is required for the learning process.
Zinc deficiency is a common nutritional problem in developing countries. In childhood and adolescence, zinc deficiency can stunt growth and sexual maturity. At all ages, inadequate zinc levels can hinder the immune system’s ability to fight infection and disease. At least a quarter of the world’s population is thought to be at risk of zinc deficiency.
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