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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Zinc and Zinc Oxide?

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The main difference between zinc and zinc oxide lies in their composition and properties. Zinc is a metallic chemical element with the atomic number 30 and the chemical symbol Zn. Zinc oxide, on the other hand, is a chemical compound that contains zinc and oxygen atoms, represented by the formula ZnO. The key differences between zinc and zinc oxide are:

  • Composition: Zinc is an element, while zinc oxide is a compound. Elements are substances made up of only one type of atom, whereas compounds are substances that contain two or more chemically bonded elements.
  • Appearance: Zinc is a hard, slightly brittle, blue-tinged white lustrous metallic element. Zinc oxide is a white powder.
  • Formation: Zinc is a naturally occurring element, while zinc oxide is typically synthesized in a laboratory. It can be prepared by heating zinc to temperatures above 1975°C, where it decomposes into zinc oxide.
  • Benefits: Zinc oxide offers greater protection against sunburn and cataracts, while zinc has a greater ability to penetrate skin cells and act as a wound healer.

In summary, zinc is a chemical element, while zinc oxide is a compound that includes both zinc and oxygen. They have different appearances and are formed in different ways. Zinc oxide provides more protection against sunburn and cataracts, while zinc is more effective in wound healing and penetrating skin cells.

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  • What is the Difference Between Zinc and Zinc Oxide?
  • Comparative Table: Zinc vs Zinc Oxide

    • Comparative Table: Zinc vs Zinc Oxide

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between zinc and zinc oxide:

    Property Zinc Zinc Oxide
    Definition Zinc is a metallic chemical element. Zinc oxide is a chemical compound containing zinc and oxygen atoms.
    Formula N/A ZnO
    Color N/A White powder
    Solubility N/A Insoluble in water
    Applications Zinc is essential for immune health and is found in various supplements, lozenges, and sprays. Zinc oxide is used in sunscreen, diaper rash cream, skin creams, clay masks, moisturizers, and dietary supplements. It is also used as an additive in materials like rubbers, plastics, ceramics, glass, cement, lubricants, paints, and batteries.
    Bioavailability Zinc is available in various forms, some of which are more bioavailable than others. For example, zinc citrate and zinc gluconate are more bioavailable than zinc oxide. The bioavailability of zinc oxide is lower compared to other forms of zinc, such as zinc citrate and zinc gluconate.

    Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in supporting immune health, while zinc oxide is a chemical compound with various applications, including cosmetics, food supplements, and industrial materials.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.