Bismuth (Bi): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Bismuth is element 83 on the periodic table, a post-transition metal. At room temperature it is a solid. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DBismuth quick facts
| Atomic number | 83 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Bi |
| Atomic mass | 208.98 |
| Category | Post-Transition Metal |
| Group and period | Group 15, period 6 |
| Block | p-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p³ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 5 |
| Discovered | 1753, Geoffroy |
What is bismuth used for?
- Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)
- Low-melting-point alloys for sprinkler systems
- Lead-free fishing weights
Interesting facts about bismuth
- Bismuth is the most naturally diamagnetic element. It repels magnetic fields
- Lab-grown bismuth crystals form staircase shapes, with rainbow colours from a thin oxide layer
- Technically radioactive but with a half-life of about 2×10¹⁹ years. For all practical purposes it's stable
Bismuth was discovered in 1753 by Geoffroy in France.
Where bismuth sits on the periodic table
Bismuth is in group 15, period 6. Tap any element to open its page.
Other post-transition metals
Bismuth questions
What is the atomic number of bismuth?
Bismuth has atomic number 83, so every bismuth atom has 83 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Bi and its atomic mass is 208.98.
Is bismuth a metal?
Bismuth is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a post-transition metal, found in group 15, period 6.
What is the electron configuration of bismuth?
The electron configuration of bismuth is [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p³. Its electrons sit in 6 shells: 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 5.
What is bismuth used for?
Bismuth is used for pepto-bismol (bismuth subsalicylate), low-melting-point alloys for sprinkler systems and lead-free fishing weights.
Who discovered bismuth?
Bismuth was discovered in 1753 by Geoffroy in France.
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