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From Silicon Simplicity Wiki
Definition
Silicon one of the the most common metalloid and can be found on the periodic table with the symbol of Si and atomic number of 14. It is considered as the eight most common element found in the universe if calculated by mass however it is very unusual for pure silicon to be found in nature. This can be found on dusts, sands, planets and planetoids in various forms of silica or silicates. Indeed, the crust of Earth is 2nd most abundant element which makes up 27.7% of the crust by mass and right after oxygen. It is less reactive than its chemical analog which is carbon.
Uses
Silicon has contributed several uses in the industry. It is the very basic component to build and use semiconductor devices which integrated circuits or microchips can be found. It is used in semiconductor basically since it help remains semiconductor at higher temperatures than germanium. Native oxide in this silicon easily grows causing it to form good semiconductor interface. Silicon in form of silica and silicate can be used in making glasses, cements, ceramics and other. It comprises of silicones which are synthetic plastic substance made of silicon, oxygen, carbon and hydrogen as well as other minor elements that may include in it. In biology, silicon is important requirement for animal survival although it only appears in tiny traces. It is significant during the metabolism of plants like grasses and forms as protective shells of microscopic diatoms.
Characteristics
Silicon reacts with halogens and dilute alkali eventhough halogens is a stable element. However, it cannot be affected by most acid base elements with the exception of the hyper-active combination of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid. It has 4 bonding electron but the same as carbon it can still combine to other elements or compound. Silicon in some aspect is similar to carbon, they are semiconductors which can donate or share 4 outer electrons to other elements making it possible to create several forms of chemical bonding. With regards to the temperature, pure silicon is in negative. In its crystal form, it has gray color and metallic luster similar to glass. In its density, silicon has higher density in liquid state than in solid state hence when it freezes it expands.
Where Can It Be Found
Silicon if measured by mass is the 2nd most abundant element which can be found in crust. This can be found along with gold and volcanic exhalation. It is commonly in form of silicon dioxide known as quartz and other silicate minerals. Aside from quartz, it can also be found in other crystalline form such as amethyst, chalcedony, flint, jasper, agate, rock crystal and opal. Moreover, it is found in silicate minerals for example feldspar group which occur in sand, clay, granite and sandstone. Other common silicate group is feldspar, pyroxene, amphibole and mica. Silicon is also found in meteorites. It is the major component of meteorites as well as component of obsidian and tektites which are example of glass.
