Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

Presence of this element as an ingrediient of water supply pipes in ancient Rome reduced avarage lifetime of Roman by half. Which element?

  1. Mercury

  2. Lead

  3. Zinc

  4. Cobalt
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Lead pipes used in ancient Roman water systems caused lead poisoning, significantly reducing life expectancy. Lead leaches into water, especially when water stands in pipes. Romans didn't understand lead toxicity, using it for pipes, cooking vessels, and even as a sweetener.

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