Silicon

Silicon was first identified in 1824 by the Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius. He produced it by reducing silicon dioxide (silica) with potassium fluoride, marking a significant milestone in the field of chemistry. However, the name 'silicon' itself was derived from the Latin word 'silex' meaning flint or silica, introduced in 1811 by Humphry Davy. Over the following decades, improvements in extraction techniques and data collection allowed for the study of silicon's properties. The 20th century saw a rapid expansion in the understanding and utilization of silicon, particularly as a semiconductor material, fuelling advancements in electronics and computing.

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, constituting approximately 28% of its mass, primarily found in the form of silicon dioxide and silicate minerals. It is most commonly found in the minerals quartz and feldspar, as well as in a variety of clay minerals. Silicon is also present in small amounts in many soils and rocks. In addition, it occurs in certain biological forms within living organisms, particularly in diatoms, which are microalgae that utilize silica to create their cell walls. This highlights the elemental importance of silicon in both geological and biological systems.

While silicon is not classified as an essential trace element for most organisms, emerging research suggests it plays a significant role in biological systems. In plants, silicon is often taken up from the soil in the form of silicic acid, contributing to structural integrity and resistance to pests and diseases. In humans, silicon is believed to be involved in the synthesis of collagen and may support bone health, although its exact biological role remains a subject of ongoing research. Some studies also indicate a potential role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease, further underscoring its significance in biology and health.

Silicon is a hard, brittle metalloid with a melting point of 1,414 °C and a boiling point of 2,355 °C. It has a density of 2.33 grams per cubic centimeter at room temperature. Silicon's crystal structure is diamond cubic, and it typically forms a variety of allotropes, with the most stable being the cubic crystalline form. Chemically, silicon is known for its reactivity with halogens and alkaline metals and it can form strong covalent bonds with a variety of elements, especially oxygen. Its ability to form complex silicates contributes to the vast diversity of mineral structures found in nature.

Silicon's most significant applications lie in the electronics industry, where it functions as a semiconductor material fundamental to the functioning of transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. In addition to electronics, silicon is extensively used in the manufacture of glass, ceramics, and concrete, as well as in the production of silicones, which are versatile polymers utilized in a myriad of applications from sealants to lubricants. Moreover, silicon is employed in the metal industry as an alloying agent to enhance the strength and corrosion resistance of metals such as aluminum and steel. Its growing importance in renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, exemplifies its critical role in supporting modern advancements in sustainable energy solutions.

• Silicon is the primary ingredient in the manufacturing of integrated circuits used in computers and smartphones.
• Silicon-based life forms are a popular theme in science fiction, although no evidence exists for their existence.
• The term 'silicon valley' originated from the high concentration of silicon chip manufacturers and innovators in California.
• Silicon is crucial for the formation of natural glass, including obsidian, which is formed from volcanic lava.
• While naturally occurring silicon is not toxic, many silicon compounds can pose risks to health, especially in industrial contexts.