The Atomic Cosmos Blog

Element of the day: Bismuth
This week on “Element of the Day,” we will learn about bismuth. This relatively nontoxic metal has many surprising applications ranging from treating an upset stomach to using it in artists’ paint.

Element of the day: Iridium
Iridium is a very rare element in Earth's crust that had a crucial role in confirming the theory that a large asteroid resulted in the mass extinction of the dinosaurs.

Element of the day: Germanium
This week's “Element of the Day” is on germanium, an element that has significantly contributed to the development and advancement of technology since the 20th century.

Element of the day: Thallium
Next on "Element of the Day" is thallium, an acutely toxic element colloquially known as the "poisoner's poison" that puts arsenic, lead, and cyanide to shame.

Element of the day: Radium
In this new series called "Element of the Day," the history and application of various elements will be discussed. First up is radium, a historically important element with many dangerous side effects.