PLUMBUM,
OR
LEAD.
Its ſpecific gravity is 11,352, greater than that of any other of the baſe metals. The nitrous acid perfectly diſſolves it; the muriatic more difficultly; the vitriolic hardly at all, for the vitriol of lead being inſoluble in water incruſts the metal, and prevents its ſolution. After calcination the weakeſt vegetable acids diſſolves it, and acquire a ſweet taſte. The phlogiſton neceſſary to be taken away in order that it may diſſolve may be called 43, which is leſs than that of any other metal. Hence we underſtand why the calx of lead may be reduced with a very minute quantity of inflammable matter. With reſpect to the force wherewith it retains this phlogiſton it occupies the tenth place. It melts at 595 degrees of heat.
PLUMBUM nativum (lead), though many mineralogiſts doubt whether it has ever yet been found. Native.
PLUMBUM (lead), mineralized by vitriolic acid. Vitriol of.
Originating from the decompoſition of Galena. It is rarely met with. It was firſt obſerved by Mr. Monnet. It does not efferveſce with acids. It may be reduced by the blowpipe upon charcoal.
PLUMBUM (lead), mineralized by vitriolic acid and iron.