Density
3.51 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)
Discovery
Barium was first identified in 1774 by Carl Wilhelm Scheele, and later isolated in 1808 by Sir Humphry Davy in England through electrolysis.
Common Uses
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Barium sulfate is used as a radiocontrast agent in medical X-rays and CT scans.
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Barium compounds are used in fireworks to produce green colors.
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Barium chromate is used as a pigment in paints and coatings.
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Barium carbonate is used in the manufacture of some types of glass.
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Barium compounds have been used as rodenticides.
Interesting Facts
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Pure barium is a soft, silvery-white metal that is chemically reactive.
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It readily oxidizes in air and reacts with water and acids.
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The name "barium" comes from the Greek word "barys," meaning "heavy."
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Barium sulfate is remarkably insoluble in water, which makes it safe for medical ingestion despite barium ions being toxic.
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