Barium

a metallic element closely related to calcium, and hence to lime. The name was proposed by Davy. It is Greek, meaning heavy. It is doubtful whether barium has ever been seen in a pure state. It is variously described as silver-white, golden-yellow, and bronze. It is known to be ductile and malleable. Its specific gravity is about four, that is, it is about four times as heavy as water. A hydrate or combination of barium and water is manufactured at Niagara Falls. It is used in clearing sugar. Barium hydrate unites with lime readily. It is used to soften water, and thus prevent the formation of lime incrustations on the inside of boilers. Barium is used in sizing paper and to adulterate the white lead used for painting. The spectroscope test for barium is a number of green lines. Barium salts are poisonous. See Chemistry