Bismuth (Bi)

Atomic Number83
Atomic Mass208.980401 u
CategoryPost-transition metal
Electron Config[Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p³
Appearancelustrous silver
Density (STP)9780 g/L
Melting Point544.7 K
Boiling Point1837 K
Electronegativity2.02 (Pauling)
Ionization Energy703 kJ/mol
Atomic Radius160 pm
Crystal StructureBase-centered Monoclinic
Discovered ByClaude François Geoffroy (1400)

Brief Introduction

Bismuth (Bi) is a brittle, crystalline, silvery-white post-transition metal with a pinkish tinge. It is the most naturally diamagnetic element and has one of the lowest thermal conductivities among metals. Key details about Bismuth (Bi) are as follows:

Uses: Used in pharmaceuticals (Pepto-Bismol), cosmetics (pigments), low-melting alloys (fire sprinklers, fuses), and as a non-toxic replacement for lead in shot, solder, and fishing sinkers.

Production/Extraction: Extracted as a byproduct of lead, copper, tin, and tungsten refining. China dominates global production. Can also be mined from bismuthinite and bismite.

History: Known since ancient times but confused with lead and tin. Identified as a distinct element by Claude Geoffroy the Younger in 1753. Name from German "Wismut" (white mass).

Health Effects & Safety: Remarkably low toxicity for a heavy metal (much less toxic than its neighbors lead, thallium, and antimony). Generally considered safe in pharmaceutical applications.

Price/Market: Price influenced by substitution for lead (regulations driving demand) and supply from China. Market is relatively small but growing for green applications.

Properties: Brittle, expands upon solidification (like water), highly diamagnetic, poor thermal conductor, low melting point (271.4°C), and burns with a blue flame.

← Lead (Pb) · Polonium (Po) →

Periodic Table