Germanium

Germanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ge and atomic number 32. It is a lustrous, hard, grayish-white metalloid in the carbon group, chemically similar to its group neighbors tin and silicon. Germanium is a semiconductor with electrical properties between those of a metal and an insulator.

Properties of Germanium:

• Atomic Number: 32
• Atomic Mass: 72.63
• Melting Point: 937.4°C
• Boiling Point: 2830°C
• Density: 5.323 g/cm3
• Electron Configuration: [Ar] 3d10 4s2 4p2

Uses of Germanium:

Germanium is used in a variety of applications, including:

• As a semiconductor material in transistors and diodes
• In infrared spectroscopes and other optical equipment
• In the production of specialty glasses and ceramics
• As a catalyst in polymerization reactions

Study Guide:

If you're studying Germanium, here are some key points to focus on:

1. The physical and chemical properties of Germanium
2. The electronic structure of Germanium and its relationship to its properties
3. The uses of Germanium in various industries and technologies
4. The role of Germanium as a semiconductor in electronic devices
5. The environmental and health impacts of Germanium and its compounds

Understanding these concepts will give you a solid foundation in the study of Germanium.