Aluminum (Al) is commonly used for making electric wires, not lead (Pb).
Reasons:
- Electrical Conductivity: Aluminum has good electrical conductivity, though not as high as copper, making it suitable for electrical wiring.
- Lightweight: Aluminum is lighter than lead and other metals, which makes it easier to handle and install.
- Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum resists corrosion well, which helps maintain the performance of the wires over time.
Lead is not used for electrical wires due to its low conductivity and potential health hazards.
⚛️ Atomic properties of Lead (Pb) and Aluminum (Al):
| Property | Lead (Pb) | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|
| Atomic Number | 82 | 13 |
| Atomic Mass | Approximately 207.2 amu | Approximately 26.98 amu |
| Electron Configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p² | [Ne] 3s² 3p¹ |
| Density | 11.34 g/cm³ | 2.70 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 327.5 °C | 660.3 °C |
| Boiling Point | 1,759 °C | 2,470 °C |
| Oxidation States | +2, +4 | +3 |