Barium

Barium, with the chemical symbol Ba and atomic number 56, was first isolated in 1808 by the British chemist Sir Humphry Davy. He obtained it through the electrolysis of barium oxide. The name "Barium" is derived from the Greek word "barys," meaning "heavy."

On Earth, barium is not found in its pure form but mainly in the form of minerals such as barite (barium sulfate). It is relatively common, constituting about 0.0425% of the Earth's crust. Barium has a silver-white color and is easily malleable.

Barium has interesting applications, particularly in medicine. Barium sulfate is used as a contrast medium in radiology to make the gastrointestinal tract visible during X-ray examinations. Additionally, barium is employed in pyrotechnics for producing green fireworks.