§ 814. Preparations of Bismuth used in Medicine and the Arts.
(1) Pharmaceutical Preparations:—
Bismuthi Subnitras, BiONO3.H2O.—A heavy white powder, insoluble in water, and responding to the usual tests for bismuth and nitric acid. The formula should yield 77 per cent. of bismuth oxide. Commercial preparations, however, vary from 79 to 82 per cent.
Bismuth Lozenges (Trochisci bismuthi) are composed of subnitrate of bismuth, magnesia carbonate, precipitated lime carbonate, sugar, and gum, mixed with rose water. Each lozenge should contain 0·13 grm. (2 grains) of subnitrate of bismuth.
Solution of Citrate of Bismuth and Ammonia (Liquor Bismuthi et Ammoniæ citratis), a colourless neutral or slightly alkaline fluid, sp. gr. 1·07, responding to the tests for bismuth and ammonia. As an impurity lead may be present, citric acid being so frequently contaminated with lead. Carbonate of bismuth (Bismuthi carbonas), (Bi2O2CO3)2H2O is a fine white powder answering to the tests for carbon dioxide and bismuth; it should yield 89·1 per cent. of bismuth oxide.
A Nitrate of Bismuth, Bi(NO3)3, an oleate of bismuth, an oxide of bismuth, a subgallate of bismuth (dermatol), and a subiodide of bismuth are also used in medicine.
(2) Bismuth in the Arts.[891]
[891] Bismuth is contained in all copper coinage—from the Bactrian coins to our own; in all cupreous ores, except the carbonates, and in nearly all specimens of commercial copper.—Field, Chem. News, xxxvi. 261.