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How the element was discovered
Alloys containing zinc have been used by humanity since ancient times. The name of the metal (zincum) is encountered in the works of Paracelsus, a doctor who lived in the 16th century. At around the same time the metal began to be used by craftsmen in China, who forged coins from it. Later zinc was discovered in Europe, and the metal began to be widely used in various spheres. The first known alloy of zinc was brass, which was first used in Cyprus, and then in England, Germany and other European nations.
Characteristics of the element:
- density – 7.13 g/cm³;
- color – bluish-white;
- zinc is a low-melting metal, with a melting point of 420 °C;
- the elasticity and malleability of the metal increases when it is heated to 100 °C;
- the boiling point of the simple substance is 906 °C;
- when heated to 200 °C, zinc loses its elasticity and turns to a gray powder;
- the metal has a high heat capacity and heat conductivity;
- zinc is a good conductor.