Silicon Study Guide

What is Silicon?

Silicon is a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14. It is a hard, brittle crystalline solid with a blue-grey metallic luster. It is a member of group 14 in the periodic table, a group of elements that includes carbon and germanium.

Properties of Silicon

• Atomic Number: 14
• Atomic Mass: 28.0855
• Physical State at Room Temperature: Solid
• Color: Blue-grey
• Hardness: Brittle

Uses of Silicon

Silicon has many important industrial uses, especially in electronics and solar cell production. It is used to make semiconductors, which are essential components of most electronic devices. It is also a key component in the production of glass, ceramics, and concrete.

Interesting Facts about Silicon

1. Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, making up about 27.7% of the crust by weight.
2. Silicon is a key element in the development of computer technology and the modern digital age.
3. Silicon is rarely found in its pure form in nature, but is commonly found in the form of silicon dioxide (silica) and silicates.

Conclusion

Understanding the properties and uses of silicon is important in the fields of chemistry, materials science, and technology. Its abundance and versatility make it a crucial element in various industrial applications.

[Silicon] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Elements and the periodic tableScience • Seventh Grade
• Earth's CrustEarth Science • High School