Lead was used in paint for which primary purposes?

Lead was used in paint for which primary purposes?

• A. As a pigment, to add durability and corrosion control, and as a drying agent
• B. To improve flame resistance and insulation
• C. To reduce cost and hardness
• D. To enhance fragrance and taste

Answer: (A)

Lead in paint was used for three main reasons: as a pigment to provide color, to improve durability and act as a corrosion inhibitor for metal surfaces, and as a drying agent that speeds the formation of the paint film. The pigment aspect gave strong, lasting color; the durability and corrosion protection helped protect metal surfaces from rust and wear; and the drying agent effect accelerated curing of the oil binder so the film hardened more quickly. The other options don’t fit because lead compounds weren’t primarily chosen for flame resistance or insulation, cost reduction or hardness changes, or for fragrance and taste.

Lead in paint was used for three main reasons: as a pigment to provide color, to improve durability and act as a corrosion inhibitor for metal surfaces, and as a drying agent that speeds the formation of the paint film. The pigment aspect gave strong, lasting color; the durability and corrosion protection helped protect metal surfaces from rust and wear; and the drying agent effect accelerated curing of the oil binder so the film hardened more quickly. The other options don’t fit because lead compounds weren’t primarily chosen for flame resistance or insulation, cost reduction or hardness changes, or for fragrance and taste.