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Why can lead be shaped and cast easily?

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A periodic table element box for lead (Pb) shows atomic number 82, atomic weight 207.2, electron configuration, and labels for symbol, name, crystal structure, and physical state, with a legend for color and symbol meanings. — lead Properties of lead.

Lead is easily shaped and cast primarily due to its physical properties, specifically its softness, high malleability, and low melting point of 327.5 °C (621.5 °F).12

Its suitability for casting is further enhanced by its relative freedom from contraction when solidifying, which allows it to hold intricate shapes effectively. Because lead is highly malleable and ductile, it can be readily fabricated through various commercial processes, including extrusion into pipes, rods, and wire, or rolling into sheets of varying thicknesses.341

While pure lead is relatively soft and has low tensile strength, it is frequently alloyed with other elements to improve its mechanical strength and hardness for specific industrial applications, such as storage batteries or structural components.45