Silicon

Silicon
Properties
Atomic symbol	Si
Atomic number	14
Classification	Metalloid
Atomic mass	28.1 amu
Other Information
Date of discovery	1823
Name of discoverer	Jons Berzelius
Name origin	From the Latin word silex (flint)
Uses	Glass, semiconductor
Obtained from	Found in clay, granite, quartz, sand

Silicon is the 14th element in the periodic table, sharing properties with its lighter analogue carbon. Like carbon, it bonds easily with many other elements to form a wide range of materials such as glass (silicon dioxide), computer chips (silicon doped with cesium or tellurium) and wood (silicon tetrachlorine oxide). Silicon is extremely abundant in the earth's crust, and silicon dust particles play an essential role in cloud formation.

See Also

• Solar energy and Photovoltaic