Lead acetate, Pb(C2H302)2·3H20 is usually white crystals or flakes, although commercial grades are frequently brown or gray lumps, has a sweetish taste, is poisonous, and absorbs carbon dioxide when exposed to air. Soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol, and freely soluble in glycerol; decomposes at 280°C and loses water at 75°C. Derivation is by the action of acetic acid on litharge or thin lead plates. Used in the manufacture of varnishes and pigments.
