Heavy metal (chemistry)
Heavy Metal (Chemistry)
Heavy metals are a group of chemical elements that exhibit certain properties. They are generally defined as metals with relatively high densities, atomic weights, or atomic numbers. The criteria used, and whether metalloids are included, vary depending on the author and context.
Pronunciation
/heavy metal/
Etymology
The term "heavy metal" is derived from the high atomic weights of these metals, which are significantly heavier than elements such as hydrogen or helium.
Related Terms
Properties
Heavy metals are generally defined as metals with relatively high densities, atomic weights, or atomic numbers. The criteria used, and whether metalloids are included, vary depending on the author and context. In metallurgy, for example, a heavy metal may be defined on the basis of density, whereas in physics the distinguishing criterion might be atomic number, while a chemist would likely be more concerned with chemical behavior.
Health Effects
Many heavy metals are toxic and can cause damage to the body if ingested or inhaled. Some heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, are toxic even in small amounts. Others, such as iron and zinc, are necessary for human health in small amounts but can be toxic in larger doses.
See Also
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.