We just learned about the element sodium that is part of what we call salt.
Another chemical element is Lead, called "Pb" for short (from the latin word "plumbum") on the Periodic Table.
Lead is another type of metal found in the earth.
Just like graphite lead can be used to write on things.
It is also easy to work with and make into things like pipes, so for a very long time many water pipes were made out of lead.
Lead was also used to make paint for a long time.
People have now learned that lead can be poisonous to people, so we have stopped using lead for pipes or paint.
(from: wikipedia - lead)
Lead is still used today to help protect us from radiation. When you get an X-Ray at the dentist's office or a doctor's office, they sometimes put a big heavy apron on you. Inside the apron is lead, protecting you from the X-Rays.
Lead is a very heavy atom, so it can stop any bad radiation from getting to your body.
(from: wikipedia - lead)
Kid Facts - Blast from the past: Circuit Board
