What is Silicon? | Types, Definition, Structure, Function & Facts
What is Silicon?
Silicon is the second element in the fourteenth column of the periodic table. He is classified as a member of Metalloids. Silicon is the eighth most abundant element in the universe and the second most abundant element in the earth’s crust after oxygen. The silicon atom has 14 electrons and 14 protons with 4 valence electrons in the outermost shell.
Characteristics and Properties
Under standard conditions, silicon is a solid. In its amorphous (random) form, it looks like a brown powder. In its crystalline form, it is a silvery-gray metallic-looking material that is brittle and hard.
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Silicon is considered a semiconductor, which means it has an electronic conductivity that falls between that of an insulator and a conductor. Its conductivity increases with temperature. This property makes silicon a valuable element in electronics.
With four valence electrons, silicon can form covalent or ionic bonds by donating or sharing its four shell electrons. At the same time, it is a relatively inert element and does not react with oxygen or water in its solid form.
Highlights of Silicon:
| Symbol | Si |
| Atomic Number | 14 |
| Atomic Weight | 28.085 |
| Classification | Metalloid |
| Phase at Room Temperature | Solid |
| Density | 2.329 grams per cm cubed |
| Melting Point | 1414°C, 2577°F |
| Boiling Point | 3265°C, 5909°F |
| Discovered by | Jons Jakob Berzelius in 1824 |
Where is Silicon found on Earth?
Silicon makes up about 28% of the earth’s crust. It is not usually found on Earth in its free form, but is commonly found in silicate minerals. These minerals make up 90% of the earth’s crust. One common compound is silicon dioxide (SiO2), commonly known as silica. Silica comes in many different forms, including sand, flint, and quartz.
Other important siliceous minerals and rocks include granite, talc, diorite, mica, clay, and asbestos. This element is also found in gemstones including opal, agate, and amethyst.
How is Silicon used today?
Silicon is used in many applications and materials. Most silicon applications use silicate minerals. These include glass (made from sand), ceramics (made from clay) and abrasives. Silicates are also used to make Portland cement which is used to make concrete and mortar.
Silicon is also used to make synthetic compounds called silicon. Silicones are used to manufacture lubricants, greases, rubber materials, waterproofing materials and sealants.
Pure silicon is used in the manufacture of semiconductor chips for electronic devices. These chips form the brains of today’s electronic devices, including computers, televisions, video game consoles, and cell phones.
Silicon is also used in metal alloys with aluminum, iron, and steel.
How was Silicon discovered?
French chemist Antoine Lavoisier was one of the first scientists to suggest that there might be a new element in quartz in 1789. After that, scientists continued to study quartz, but it was Swedish chemist Jons Jakob Berzelius was the first to isolate the element silicon and produce it. a sample in 1824.
Where did Silicon get its name?
The name comes from the Latin “silicus” which means “flint”. Flint is a mineral containing silicon.
Isotopes
Silicon occurs naturally in one of three stable isotopes: silicon-28, silicon-29, and silicon-30. About 92% of silicon is silicon-28.
Interesting Facts about Silicon
Silicon has a relatively unique property for an element to expand when frozen like water.
It has a high melting point of 1400 degrees Celsius and boils at 2800 degrees Celsius.
The most abundant compound in the earth’s crust is silicon dioxide.
Silicon carbide (SiC) is commonly used as an abrasive and is nearly as hard as diamond.
Silicon wafers for computer chips are “developed” using the Czochralski process.