Silicon
Silicon, element #14, has an atomic mass of 28.0855, a density of 2.33 g/cm3,
electron levels of 2-8-4, and valences of +4 and 2. Si is a metalloid in the carbon
group. Si was discovered in 1823 by Jons Berzelius of Sweden. It melts at 1683 K, and boils at 2630 K. Silicon is used in computer chips, solar cells, breast implants, synthetic rubber, and industrial
abrasives. Silicon dioxide is the main ingredient of glass and the major component of sand. Si was
named for the Latin word for "flint." Si makes up 25.7% oth the earth's crust. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is the
only acid that affects it. Si is relatively inert, and is one of the most useful elements.
Silicon's electronegativity is 1.90.
Si's electron configuration is [Ne]3s2p2.
June 18, 1997, updated August 7, 1998
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