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Pencil "lead" never contained lead but was always graphite.

Another opinion

The "lead" in modern pencils is made from the element Carbon (C) - in its soft form of graphite - plus a filler (like clay). These ingredients are all ground up very fine and then stuck together with glue. It contains none of the actual chemical element Lead (Pb).

Further historical information

The name "lead" is used because, before modern pencils were invented, it was known that a pure piece of the element Lead (Pb) can be used to make marks on wood or paper because it is very soft. It is not used today because real Lead and its various compounds are poisonous and are also very expensive compared to Carbon. (Soot is basically Carbon.)

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13y ago

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Related Questions

Do they use lead or graphite for mechanical pencils?

Mechanical pencils, like the regular kind of pencils, use graphite.


What is graphite used in?

pencils such as lead pencils


How can you tell from a graphite or lead pencil?

Graphite pencils typically have a matte finish, while lead pencils have a shiny appearance. Additionally, graphite pencils produce darker markings compared to lead pencils of the same grade.


What are the most facts about graphite?

graphite is used for pencils!!


What mineral is used in pencils?

Graphite is the mineral used in pencils. It is a form of carbon that allows for smooth writing and drawing.


When did they start putting graphite in pencils?

Graphite started being used in pencils in the 16th century. The first graphite pencils were developed in England in the mid-1500s when a large deposit of pure graphite was discovered. Initially, graphite sticks were wrapped in string or sheepskin for writing.


Is limestone in pencils?

no. its graphite.


Is lead found in pencils?

Not in modern pencils. They contain graphite.


Is graphite used in baseball bats?

no. graphite is used in pencils


Graphite is used in pencils?

Graphite mixed with china clay.


Are pencils still made of led?

Pencils are no longer made with lead. They are made with a mixture of graphite and clay. This combination produces the "lead" in modern pencils.


Why do lead pencils contain graphite?

Because if pencil doesnot have graphite,we cannot write anything.In pencils,the black element is graphite used to write anything.