Density
7.31 g/cm³ (grey) / 5.77 g/cm³ (white) (at 20 °C)
Discovery
Known since ancient times
Discovery
Tin has been known and used since ancient times. Its discovery predates recorded history.
Common Uses
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Used to coat other metals to prevent corrosion, such as in tin cans.
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A major component of solder, used to join metal parts.
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Used in alloys like bronze (with copper) and pewter (with copper, antimony, and sometimes lead).
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Used to make float glass.
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Some tin compounds are used to stabilize plastics and in pigments.
Interesting Facts
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Tin pest, a low-temperature allotropic transformation, causes white tin to turn into a brittle grey powder.
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Like indium, tin also produces a cracking sound, known as the "tin cry," when bent due to the breaking of crystal twins.
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Historically, tin was crucial in the Bronze Age.
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Tin has a relatively low toxicity compared to some other heavy metals.
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