Bismuth is a metal. It is a chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83, and is classified as a post-transition metal in the periodic table. Like other metals, bismuth is shiny, malleable, ductile, and a good conductor of heat and electricity. 1
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Key Takeaways: Is Bismuth a Metal, Nonmetal or a Metalloid?
- Bismuth is a metal and belongs to the post-transition metal group in the periodic table.
- Bismuth has a lower melting point and is more brittle than most metals.
- Bismuth has a unique crystalline structure and is non-toxic, which sets it apart from other metals.
Why is bismuth a metal?
Bismuth is classified as a metal because it has properties that are typical of metals. Specifically, bismuth is hard, brittle and it has a lustrous, metallic appearance. 2
While bismuth does have some characteristics that are not typically associated with metals (such as its low melting point), its overall behavior and properties make it a member of the metals family on the periodic table of elements.
How is bismuth different from other metals?
While bismuth shares many properties with other metals, there are some differences that set it apart:
- Low melting point: Bismuth has a relatively low melting point compared to other metals. It melts at 271.4 °C, which is much lower than metals like iron, copper, or gold. 3
- Brittle: Bismuth is more brittle than most metals, which means it is more likely to fracture or break under stress. 4
- Non-toxic: Unlike many other metals, bismuth is not toxic to humans. In fact, it is sometimes used in medicines and cosmetics. 5 6
- Crystalline structure: Bismuth has a unique crystalline structure that sets it apart from other metals. When it solidifies from a liquid, it forms distinctive stair-step or “hopper” shaped crystals. 7
Overall, these differences make bismuth a unique member of the metals family on the periodic table.
Further reading
Is Radon a Metal or Nonmetal?
Is Chlorine Solid, Liquid or Gas?
Is Sulfur a Solid, Liquid or Gas?
Is Carbon Solid, Liquid or Gas?
Is Boron a Solid, Liquid or Gas?
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References
- Making bismuth behave like a transition metal. (n.d.). Making Bismuth Behave Like a Transition Metal. https://phys.org/news/2020-01-bismuth-transition-metal.html
- 8.9.6: Chemistry of Bismuth (Z=83). (2022, August 5). Chemistry LibreTexts. https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Inorganic_Chemistry/Inorganic_Chemistry_(LibreTexts)/08%3A_Chemistry_of_the_Main_Group_Elements/8.09%3A_The_Nitrogen_Family/8.9.06%3A_Chemistry_of_Bismuth_(Z83)
- Bismuth. (n.d.). Bismuth. https://nature.berkeley.edu/classes/eps2/wisc/bismuth.html
- Bismuth – Element information, properties and uses | Periodic Table. (n.d.). Bismuth – Element Information, Properties and Uses | Periodic Table. https://www.rsc.org/periodic-table/element/83/bismuth
- H. M. (2019, June 10). Bismuth: Heavy Metal Toxicity | JoBeth Helmig-Mason’s Toxic Substances Blog. Bismuth: Heavy Metal Toxicity | JoBeth Helmig-Mason’s Toxic Substances Blog. https://u.osu.edu/helmig-mason.1/2019/06/10/bismuth-heavy-metal-toxicity/
- Yang, N., & Sun, H. (2011). Bismuth: Environmental Pollution and Health Effects. Encyclopedia of Environmental Health, 414–420. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-444-52272-6.00374-3
- Bismuth – Wikipedia. (2019, April 8). Bismuth – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bismuth
