Bismuth is a chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83. It is a brittle, crystalline, white metal with a slight pink tinge. Bismuth is the heaviest non-radioactive element and is known for its low toxicity compared to other heavy metals. It is often used in medical applications, such as in bismuth subsalicylate, which is the active ingredient in some antacids and anti-diarrheal medications. Bismuth has a variety of industrial uses as well, including in the production of low-melting alloys, fire detection devices, and cosmetics. It is also notable for its diamagnetic properties and high electrical resistance. Bismuth occurs naturally in the Earth's crust and is usually obtained as a byproduct of mining and refining lead, copper, tin, silver, and gold ores.
