Bi - Bismuth

Bismuth (Bi) is a chemical element with unique physical characteristics, a wide range of applications, and several important compounds. It is known for its low toxicity, high density, and low thermal conductivity. 

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Bismuth is a brittle metal with a white, silver-pink hue, often with an iridescent oxide tarnish showing many colors from yellow to blue.
• Atomic Number: 83
• Atomic Mass: 208.98040 u
• Melting Point: 271.5°C (520.7°F)
• Boiling Point: 1564°C (2847°F)
• Density: 9.78 g/cm³
• State at Room Temperature: Solid

Main Applications:

• Alloys: Due to its low melting point, bismuth is used in fire detection and suppression system sprinklers, soldering alloys, and low-melting point alloys called fusible alloys, which melt at temperatures lower than 300°C (572°F).
• Medicine: Bismuth compounds, like bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), are used in medications to treat stomach upsets, indigestion, and as an antibacterial agent.
• Cosmetics: Bismuth oxychloride is used in cosmetics as a pigment due to its pearlescent appearance.
• Catalysis: Bismuth compounds are used as catalysts in the chemical industry, particularly in the manufacture of certain types of synthetic fibers and rubber.

Main Compounds:

• Bismuth Oxychloride (BiOCl): Used in cosmetics for its pearlescent effect.
• Bismuth Subsalicylate: Used as an antacid and anti-diarrheal medication.
• Bismuth Subnitrate and Subcarbonate: Used in medical imaging and as protective coatings in certain pharmaceuticals.
• Bismuth Telluride (Bi2Te3): A thermoelectric material used for cooling applications or generating electricity from temperature differentials.

Basics on Bismuth-Wikipedia