A bluish-white metallic element, symbol Zn,
atomic number 30, relative atomic mass 65.38.
The principal source is the USA. Zinc's chief
uses are in the production of galvanized iron
and in alloys, notably brass. Its compounds
include zinc oxide, used in ointments and
cosmetics, paint, glass, and printing ink.
Zinc sulphide is used in television screens
and X-ray apparatus. Ores occur in many parts
of the world. From very early times zinc has
been used as a component of brass, but it was
not recognized as a separate metal until 1746
by Andreas Sigismund Marggraf (1709-82). The
zinc industry in Europe generates about
80,000 tons of zince waste each year.