Final answer:
Lead, symbolized by Pb, is found in many industrial products and materials. Its use has been restricted in many applications due to health risks. Industries such as smelters, battery manufacturing, and aviation continue to be significant sources of lead exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lead is a naturally occurring metal found in the earth's crust and has been used in various industries due to its properties. Lead exposure can occur through several sources such as paint, water pipes, toys, and jewelry, as well as through jobs and hobbies that involve lead-containing materials.
The chemical symbol for lead is Pb, and it has been used extensively to produce items like batteries, pipes, roofing materials, scientific electronic equipment, and medical devices, along with products for shielding against X-rays and nuclear radiation. Concerns over health risks have led to bans on the use of lead and lead compounds in house paint, solder on water pipes and food cans, and gasoline.
Industrial sources of lead include smelters (metal refineries), battery manufacturing, and the combustion of leaded gasoline in piston engine aircraft. These sources contribute to the challenges of lead identification and management in the industry.