What is Germanium? | Types, Definition, Structure, Function & Facts
What is Germanium?
Germanium is the 3rd element in the 14th column of the periodic table. It is classified as a metalloid. Its properties are similar to those of other metalloids located nearby on the periodic table, namely silicon and arsenic. The germanium atom has 32 electrons and 32 protons with 4 valence electrons in the outermost shell.
Characteristics and Properties
Under normal conditions, germanium is a hard, shiny, silver-gray solid that is very brittle. It is one of the few elements that expands when it freezes or becomes solid.
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As a metalloid, germanium has both metallic and non-metallic properties. It is also a semiconductor, which means it has an electrical conductivity that lies between an insulator and a conductor. This feature has led to its use in electronics.
Highlights of Germanium:
| Symbol | Ge |
| Atomic Number | 32 |
| Atomic Weight | 72.64 |
| Classification | Metalloid |
| Phase at Room Temperature | Solid |
| Density | 5.323 grams per cm cubed |
| Melting Point | 938°C, 1720°F |
| Boiling Point | 2833°C, 5131°F |
| Discovered by | Clemens Winkler in 1886 |
Where is Germanium found on Earth?
Germanium is a fairly rare element found in the earth’s crust. Although some minerals contain large amounts of germanium, such as germanite and argyrodite, they are too rare to mine. Much of the germanium used in industry is produced as a by-product of the mining of zinc sphalerite ore, where it is found in trace amounts.
How is Germanium used today?
How was Germanium discovered?
Germanium was first predicted by the Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleev in 1869 based on the periodic table. However, it was the German chemist Clemens Winkler who isolated the element and proved its existence in 1886. Winkler found the element in the mineral argyrodite.
Where did Germanium get its name?
Germanium takes its name from Germany, Winkler’s hometown.
Isotopes
There are five natural isotopes of germanium. The most common is germanium-74.
Interesting Facts about Germanium
Dmitri Mendeleev first named the element “ekasilicon”, but it was later renamed by Winkler.
Some compounds including germanium are useful in killing bacteria without harming the animals.
It is used as a catalyst for the production of some plastics.
Much of the germanium mined is produced by China. A good part also comes from recycling.