Posted by jlyle on June 12, 2005 at 16:02:29:
In Reply to: A chemistry question for Prof. Lyle posted by Dick Analog on June 12, 2005 at 14:24:14:
Pure lead is very inert and doesn't oxidize under normal conditions. However, when trace metals, such as Antimony, are present, the shot will begin oxidize to form Lead Oxide - the milky precipitate that you see running out of your soft weights. The large surface area on lead shot also contributes to the amount of oxide formed.
The lead oxide is toxic. I use coated weights, myself.