Bismuth (symbol Bi, atomic number 83) is a brittle metal used in stomach medicine and low-melting-point alloys. It is classified as a post-transition metal and sits in group 15, period 6 of the periodic table.
Overview
Bismuth is the chemical element with atomic number 83 and the symbol Bi. With a standard atomic weight of 208.98, it is a post-transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 15 and period 6, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Bismuth is a brittle metal used in stomach medicine and low-melting-point alloys.
Atomic structure
An atom of Bismuth has 83 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 83 electrons arranged in the configuration [Xe] 4f14 5d10 6s2 6p3. Its standard atomic weight of 208.98 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Bismuth has been known since antiquity. It follows Lead (Pb) and precedes Polonium (Po) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 83 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Bi |
| Atomic mass | 208.98 |
| Category | Post-transition metal |
| Group | 15 |
| Period | 6 |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f14 5d10 6s2 6p3 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | Antiquity |