Other Metals
Bismuth

Bismuth is a brittle, crystalline, white metal with a slight pinkish hue, and is often found as a byproduct of mining and refining lead, copper, tin, silver, and gold ores. Bismuth stands out for its low toxicity compared to other heavy metals, making it a safer alternative for many applications. It is known for its unique properties, including a high density, low thermal conductivity, and high electrical resistance, as well as being diamagnetic.
Bismuth is used in a variety of applications. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is an active ingredient in medications for treating gastrointestinal disorders, such as bismuth subsalicylate found in Pepto-Bismol. Bismuth compounds are also used in cosmetics, pigments, and as a lead-free replacement in free-machining alloys and solders, due to its non-toxic nature. Additionally, bismuth is utilized in the production of low-melting-point alloys for fire detection and extinguishing systems, and in nuclear reactors for cooling and shielding.
