Lead(IV) oxide, also known as plumbic oxide or lead dioxide, is a chemical compound with the formula PbO2. It appears as a dark brown or black solid and is primarily used in the production of lead-acid batteries, where it serves as a positive electrode. Lead(IV) oxide is also utilized in various industrial applications, including glass manufacturing and as a pigment. This compound is notable for its strong oxidizing properties, making it useful in chemical reactions that require the addition of oxygen. However, due to the toxicity of lead, handling lead(IV) oxide requires caution to prevent health risks associated with lead exposure.