Bismuth (Bi)Bismuth is probably the heaviest element that you're probably encounter in everyday life as heavier elements tend to be radioactive (not the case for bismuth).
There are some interesting properties surrounding bismuth, this includes high diamagnetic moment (the highest of all the elements), expansion on solidification (very few materials expand on solidification) and a half life radioactive stability of 1.9x1019 years for bismuth-209 (the age of the universe is believed to be ~1.38x1010 years old for comparison).
Bismuth is truly 'star dust', such a heavy stable element that was formed by stars going supernova under powerful circumstances, with the right conditions for neutron capture; without the element breaking down before reaching a stable state. Holding a piece of bismuth is truly like holding a piece of ancient history.
Physical
properties
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Melting point | 544.7 K (271.5 °C, 520.7 °F) |
| Boiling point | 1837 K (1564 °C, 2847 °F) |
| Density (at STP) | 9.78 g/cm3 |
Other Properties
Crystal Structure: Rhombohedral
Magnetic moment: diamagnetic (-0.0000166)
Uses
Major alloy addition in lead free solders
Used as lead free shot for hunting
Used as sinkers for fishing
Potential uses as a new magnetic material
Bismuth oxide is used as a yellow pigment for cosmetics and paints
Bismuth(III) chloride oxide (BiClO) gives a pearly effect to cosmetics.
Bismuth
subsalicylate (brand names Pepto-Bismol) is sold as medication used to
treat temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract,
such as nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea.