Bismuth had been known as early as 1400, but it was often confused with lead due to their similar properties. French chemist Claude Geoffroy the Younger, in 1753, was the first to prove that bismuth was a separate element and not lead. The word “bismuth” is the Latinized form of the Old German word “weissmuth”, which means “white substance”. It is possible that this name evolved due to the element’s white oxide.
This element is used in medicine, in cosmetic products, in low-melting alloys, fire detection/extinguishing systems, and as a replacement for lead in shot and bullets (bismuth-tin alloy).
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