%Zinc

Zinc (Zn) occurs in the natural environment almost entirely in the Zn²⁺ oxidation state; Zn⁰ and Zn⁺ are rare. Zinc is also associated with soil organic matter and typically accumulates in surface horizons. It forms inorganic and organic complexes, some of which are soluble and mobile, others insoluble and bound to the solid phase. Zinc also occurs in the solid phase of soils in mineral fragments. Zinc is an essential micronutrient in living organisms; it is an active catalytic component of approximately 300 enzymes including dehydrogenases, phosphatases, and RNA polymerases and has many physiological roles including DNA replication, CO₂ regulation and metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Zinc oxide is used as an additive in rubber, paints and plastics. Other end-uses include alkaline batteries, skincare products, mineral supplements and agricultural fungicides. Zinc is less toxic to humans than some of the elements it is often associated with, particularly cadmium (Cd).