Lead smelting is the process of extracting lead from its ore, primarily galena, which is a natural mineral containing lead sulfide. The ore is heated in a furnace, where it undergoes chemical reactions that separate lead from impurities. This process often involves adding materials like flux to help remove unwanted substances. Once the lead is extracted, it is typically poured into molds to create ingots for easier handling and transportation. Lead smelting is an important industrial process, but it must be managed carefully due to the toxic nature of lead and its potential environmental impact.