Bismuth is a dense, relatively low-toxicity metal used in medicines, low-melting alloys, pigments, and cosmetics.
Atomic number
83
Category
Post-transition metal
Period
6
Group
15
State
Solid
Fun facts about Bismuth
It expands when it solidifies, like water and a few other substances.
Bismuth crystals often show staircase shapes and iridescent oxide colours.
Bismuth subsalicylate is used in some digestive medicines.
Common uses of Bismuth
Digestive medicines
Low-melting alloys
Cosmetics and pigments
Where Bismuth sits in the periodic table
Bismuth is classified as a post-transition metal in period 6 and group 15 of the periodic table. Under the conditions represented in this reference, its state is solid.
Quick chemistry revision
For quick revision, pair the symbol Bi with atomic number 83 and the listed atomic mass 208.98. The summary, facts, and uses above keep those element properties together in one reference.