(Ger. Zink, obscure origin) Known since biblical times. Found at a prehistoric site. Zinc ores were used for making brass before it was recognized as an element. Rediscovered in 1746 by Marggraf. Occurs primarily as sphalerite (ZnS, zinc blende) and found in smithsonite, calamine and franklinite.
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used in paints as ZnS (non-toxic), ZnO (zinc oxide) ointments, tires, cement, photocopiers (conducts electricity when illuminated) , cosmetics, soaps, inks, rubber