Reddish-white metal. Density: 9.78 g/cm³. It was
discovered around 1400 by an unknown alchemist. The name comes from old German Bisemutum,
meaning "white mass", which is a mineral now known to be bismuth oxychloride.
In air, the surface of bismuth is covered with a yellow and blue iridescent
sheen, due to the formation of a layer of oxide. Bismuth was incorporated by
the Incas in bronze-like alloys, which were used for making knives.
Bismuth oxychloride is utilized for the "pearl effect" in cosmetics
and cheap jewelry. Bismuth subgallate ("Devrom") serves as
"internal deodorant" neutralizing the odor of passed gas [2].
Other compounds are used to treat lupus erythematodes, which is an autoimmune
disease, as well as against ulcers, asthma and syphilis. The treatment with
bismuth compounds may cause a dark ridge on the gums, due to bismuth sulfide
deposits.
During solidification (the solid floating on the liquid state, analogously to ice on water) impressive crystals occur, having the shape of square spirals with steps, reminiscent of Mayan temples with a touch of science fiction.
Poem:
Madame is being transformed into a pyramid with steps and steep and square-shaped spirals. She crystallizes, full of Bismuth, into a splendid, statue of matter.
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