what is silicon?and what is it used for
Google Silicon
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silicon
"Measured by mass, silicon makes up 25.7% of the Earth's crust and is the second most abundant element on Earth, after oxygen. Pure silicon crystals are only occasionally found in nature; they can be found as inclusions with gold and in volcanic exhalations. Silicon is usually found in the form of silicon dioxide (also known as silica), and silicate.
Silica occurs in minerals consisting of (practically) pure silicon dioxide in different crystalline forms. Sand, amethyst, agate, quartz, rock crystal, chalcedony, flint, jasper, and opal are some of the forms in which silicon dioxide appears. (They are known as "lithogenic", as opposed to "biogenic", silicas.)
Silicon also occurs as silicates (various minerals containing silicon, oxygen and one or another metal), for example feldspar. These minerals occur in clay, sand and various types of rock such as granite and sandstone. Asbestos, feldspar, clay, hornblende, and mica are a few of the many silicate minerals.
Silicon is a principal component of aerolites, which are a class of meteoroids, and also is a component of tektites, which are a natural form of glass."
(this is from the wikipedia page for 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 lustre. In its purest form, it is a semiconductor, which means it can conduct electricity under certain conditions.
Silicon is widely used in various industries and applications due to its unique properties. Here are some common uses:
1. Electronics: Silicon is the main component in the manufacture of semiconductors, which are essential for electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and televisions. It is used to create transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits.
2. Solar Panels: Silica, a compound of silicon, is a key ingredient in manufacturing photovoltaic (PV) cells used in solar panels. These cells convert sunlight into electricity, making silicon crucial for renewable energy generation.
3. Glass and Ceramics: Silicon dioxide (silica) is a primary component in the production of glass, ceramics, and enamel. It lends strength, durability, and heat resistance to these materials.
4. Construction: Silicones, a group of synthetic materials derived from silicon, find applications in construction. They are used in adhesives, sealants, and coatings due to their waterproofing, bonding, and insulating properties.
5. Automotive Industry: Silicones and silicon-based materials have various uses in the automotive sector. They are used in gaskets, engine components, lubricants, and sealants to enhance performance, durability, and reduce friction.
6. Medical Implants: Silicones are also used in the production of medical implants such as artificial joints, catheters, and prosthetics due to their biocompatibility and versatility.
To learn more about silicon and its uses, you can refer to scientific sources, engineering websites, or encyclopedias.