zinc: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Oct. 14, 2026

Facts

Also Known As	Zn

Photos and Videos

A labeled diagram of the periodic table entry for zinc, showing its atomic number 30, symbol Zn, atomic weight 65.38, electron configuration, name, hexagonal crystal structure, solid state at room temperature, and classification as a transition metal.

Large zinc-coated galvanized metal ventilation ducts with a vent and joints are mounted near a ceiling inside an industrial or commercial building.

Large rolls of shiny sheet steel galvanized with zinc are lined up on the floor of a factory warehouse, with industrial equipment in the background.

What causes kidney stones and how to prevent them

See All Videos, Images and Interactives →

Topics

Mississippi Valley type deposit human nutrition zinc processing zinc deficiency nickel silver chemical element zinc group element hydrogen carbon sodium nitrogen sulfur phosphorus boron iodine fluorine oxygen

Dig Deeper: More Articles That Discuss This Topic

nutritional disease: Zinc

Key People

Marggraf, engraving

Andreas Sigismund Marggraf

German chemist

Negishi Ei-ichi

Negishi Ei-ichi

Japanese chemist

default image

Georg Brandt

Swedish chemist

Concept artwork on the periodic table of elements.

118 Names and Symbols of the Periodic Table Quiz

Periodic Table of the elements concept image (chemistry)

Facts You Should Know: The Periodic Table Quiz