Is the radiation from my bismuth ingot dangerous?

Bismuth is a naturally occurring element that is weakly radioactive, and it emits low levels of alpha particles. These alpha particles are not very penetrating and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even by the outer layer of skin. Therefore, a solid bismuth ingot is generally considered to be safe to handle.

However, if your bismuth ingot was obtained from a source that is contaminated with other radioactive materials, it could potentially pose a health hazard. In this case, it would be important to have the ingot tested for radioactivity to determine if it is safe to handle.

If you are unsure about the safety of your bismuth ingot, it is recommended that you consult with a radiation safety expert or a qualified health professional for advice.