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Silicon Uncovered: 30 Elemental Facts You Should Know

Silicon is a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14. With an atomic weight of 28.085, silicon is a metalloid belonging to group 14 of the periodic table along with carbon and germanium. While not found pure, silicon can be refined into its elemental form which takes on a crystalline structure. With useful characteristics of both metals and non-metals, silicon as an element and component of computer chips forms the backbone of modern electronics and information technology advancement. Today, in this article we will uncover 30 elemental facts about silicon that you should be aware of.

1. Its elemental symbol is Si

The chemical symbol for silicon is Si, and it has an atomic number of 14 and an atomic mass of 28.085. The symbol Si stands for silicium which is a Latin word that means 鈥渉ard rock鈥�. It is mainly used in the semiconductor industry, forming the foundation of all the electronics and computing technology that we use today. Our smartphone displays and computer motherboards are marked with this Si abbreviation to denote that they cannot be able to function without this elemental silicon and its extraordinary properties that make them perfect for digital circuitry and solar energy applications.

2. It鈥檚 the second most abundant element on our planet

Silicon is the second most abundant element on Earth after oxygen. It is approximately 27.7% of the Earth鈥檚 crust by mass.  Its abundance on earth, comes from its ability to bond with oxygen, to form silica and silicate minerals. The prevalence of silicon on Earth shows how it has infiltrated nearly all natural environments and systems on Earth. Partnerships between oxygen and silicon help construct the planet and shape its surfaces through weathering and erosion. All of the gorgeous sandy beach, clay, and granite formations are the result of silicon holding everything together.

3. Silicon has a diamond cubic crystal structure

Granular Silicon.

Silicon has a diamond cubic crystal structure because its atoms have bonded together in a symmetrical, three-dimensional lattice. They have a dull metallic gray appearance and consistency similar to that of steel, unlike diamond which has glittering facets and pure crystalline. This diamond cubic structure contributes to silicon鈥檚 hardness and higher melting than other metals. This crystal structure makes it easy to produce atomically flat surfaces that are perfect for constructing microchips. It also gives a consistent electrical property which is crucial for circuitry. This diamond cubic crystal shape aids in several functions of silicon.

4. Its origin date back to 1823

Silicon was identified by the Swedish chemist J枚ns Jacob Berzelius in 1823. He first isolated the silicon by heating potassium with silicon tetrafluoride. From this process, he was able to obtain impure amorphous silicon but observed enough unique properties to distinguish it from compounds like silica. Berzelius named his new element “silicon” which was believed to be a semi-metal. It took several more decades to correctly classify it as a metalloid.  This was achieved by German chemist Clemens Alexander Winkler in 1887. Thanks to Jacob Berzelius for marking a significant milestone and laying the foundation for further research and applications.

5. Silicon includes semiconductor properties

pure silicon. , , via Wikimedia Commons

Silicon is classified as a semiconductor due to its unique electronic structure. This semiconductor feature in silicon is essential in the electronic industry. One of the common features of semiconductors is their ability to transmit electricity under certain conditions. When silicon is at complete zero temperature, it acts as an insulators but when the temperature increases, the electrons in silicon gain energy and can move within the crystal lattice, contributing to electrical conductivity. Interestingly, silicon can be weakened by introducing small amounts of specific impurities to alter its electrical properties. This process is only applicable when creating electronic components like transistors.

6. Silicon is non-toxic and not harmful to humans or animals

Despite its dominance on the planet, silicon is not toxic or harmful to humans and animals, unlike other heavy metals or other hazardous elements. Several living things actively depend on capturing silicates to build cell structures. Also, some plants and aquatic microbes need silicon to grow. Furthermore, clay and silica are common food additives and anti-caking agents too. Human beings regularly utilize thousands of silicon-containing products like glass, cement, and silicone polymers. Silicon’s chemical inertness from protective oxide layers enables all these human and animal-safe functionalities.   

7. Silicon is essential for computer chips and microelectronics

Silicon semiconductor properties and crystal structures make it serve as an important basis in the world of computer chips and microelectronics. Silicon permits controlled electricity conductivity enabling it to switch electrical states rapidly due to their semiconductor properties. Silicon also enables the construction of integrated circuits, the backbone of modern electronic devices with the help of its crystal lattice structure. Silicon is also used in the manufacturing of chips because of their purity which also enables silicon wafers refined to remarkably high levels to ensure the reliability and performance of electronic components. Silicon therefore forms the irreplaceable core of all modern computing technologies, from desktop computers to smartphones, making these devices accessible and affordable.

8.  Silicon Valley origins

Silicon Valley is currently a world-famous Northern California technology hub. It inherited this name because of how elemental silicon enabled the region鈥檚 rise to global high-tech dominance. In the 1950s, several research institutes such as Stanford University and local industry in Northern California began nurturing a pioneering electronics and semiconductor sector largely dependent on silicon devices. Silicon Valley became associated with technological advancement entrepreneurship and the birthplace of many other iconic technology hubs. The name Silicon Valley continues to respect the basic silicon that enables digital life.

9. Quartz, sand, granite, clay, and soils contain silicon

Silicon abundant on our planet makes it available in sand, clay, and quartz. The beautiful sandy beaches you see today and fertile farmlands contain silicon as one of their major components. Quartz, a crystalline form of silicon dioxide, represents a major reservoir of silicon. Quartz forms intricate structures of silicon and oxygen atoms. Granite is rich in quartz crystals making it also a source of silicon. On the other hand, clay contains silicon within its complex structures, which influences the physical and chemical properties of the soil. Silicon hence, highlights its diverse roles in both the formation of Earth鈥檚 crust.

10. Silicon is used to make solar panels to harness renewable energy

Silicon assists in the sustainability of energy by serving as a key material in the production of solar panels. This whole production begins with the creation of silicon wafers which are then processed to form photovoltaic cells which are the necessary units responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Silicon furthermore enables the creation of semiconductor structure cells thus enhancing their efficiency in capturing solar energy through intentional doping. These interconnected cells that are assembled into solar panels serve as a strong platform for consuming renewable energy. The photovoltaic cells in solar panels offer a sustainable source of power by generating electric current when exposed to sunlight.

11. It rapidly forms a passive oxide layer when exposed to air.

A sample of Silicon dioxide.

One of the interesting facts about silicon is its ability to form a passive oxide layer when exposed to air. This thin layer that is formed on its surface is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It acts as a stable and protective barrier to the silicon surface, making it less prone to corrosion, oxidation, and any other degradation. Silicon鈥檚 resistance to corrosion is one of the reasons why it is employed in the electronics industry and other applications where environmental exposure is a consideration.

12. It is brittle and rigid at room temperature

One of the properties of silicon is how the element turns brittle and inflexible around room temperatures when they are in their crystalline form. The crystal structure of each silicon atom is covalently bonded to four neighboring silicon atoms, forming a three-dimensional lattice, which contributes to their rigid and hard structure. However, when they are exposed to high enough heat, the solid inflexible silicon can transform plastic and malleable allowing bending, and shaping into ingots before they recrystallize. When they are in their recrystallized form and it鈥檚 returned to room temperatures near 20 degrees, the silicon atoms clench firmly in place into rigid asymmetric lattices.

13. Elemental silicon has a bluish-grey metallic appearance

Elemental silicon has an appearance of a lustrous, dark grey, or bluish-grey metallic. When elemental silicon appears in its pure form, it shows a crystalline structure with a shiny or reflective quality surface. The mentioned bluish tint color may be observed under a certain specific lighting condition. The silicon’s metallic appearance is seen in its crystalline structure. It is also important to note that silicon can have the same properties as metals but they are not classified as metals but rather as a metalloid.

14. Silicon is purified via trichlorosilane

To produce electronics-grade silicon one needs purified silicon. Trichlorosilane is used to purify silicon. The process of acquiring this trichlorosilane begins with metallurgical-grade silicon which is obtained from sources like quartz. Metallurgical grade is then purified through fractional distillation to separate it from other impurities. The next step is decomposing trichlorosilane in a chemical vapor deposition reactor, where the silicon is thrown down onto a seed crystal wafer to produce a high-purity silicon crystal. The use of trichlorosilane ensures the reliable performance of semiconductor devices used in various electronic applications.

15. Doping with other elements produces positive or negative semiconductors

Doping silicon with specific elements into a semiconductor material improves its electrical properties. When elements from Group V such as phosphorous, are used as dopants, more electrons are added into the semiconductor crystal lattice. These extra electrons introduce excess negative charge carriers to the semiconductor turning it into an N-type(negative-type) material. Furthermore, doping with elements Group III such as aluminum, creates 鈥渉oles鈥� in the crystal lattice. These holes act as positive charge carriers, resulting in P-type (positive-type) material.

16. Silicon carbide is extremely hard

A picture of Silicon Carbide. , , via Wikimedia Commons

Silicon carbide is an extremely hard ceramic material. It is made of silicon and carbon atoms bonded together in a crystalline structure. Its hardness approaches that of diamond, making it one of the hardest synthetic materials existing.  Even when exposed to temperatures as high as 1400 degrees, they still maintain their strength. Silicon carbide’s resistance to chemical corrosion makes it suitable for high-temperature and harsh environment applications. All these properties make silicon carbide valued for industrial applications.

17. Silica aerogel is the lightest solid material on earth

Silica aerogel is renowned as the lightest solid material on Earth. It is derived from silicon dioxide which is the same compound found in quartz. Silicon aerogel consists of a gel in which the liquid part has been replaced by 90% air. By starting with silica gel and removing the liquid component carefully, aerogels maintain a 3D backbone matrix comprised of mostly air. After all this process, silica remains with a density as low as 0.003 g/cm3, which is even lighter than the air surrounding us.   

18. Silicon is the eighth most common element in the universe

A picture of purified silicon. , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Silicon is the eighth most plentiful element in the universe. It is typically formed in stars before they explode, resulting in widespread silicon distribution. This makes silicon more abundant than heavier elements such as iron, uranium, and gold. However, lighter gases such as hydrogen, helium, and oxygen remain more frequent. Silicon is found in cosmic gas and dust clouds at a concentration of around 15,000 parts per million. So, while not the most common, silicon is in the top 10 chemical elements manufactured and distributed globally.

19. Silicones are polymeric materials

Silicones are a versatile type of heat-resistant polymer composed of silicon, oxygen, and carbon. Silicones, unlike other plastics, have a backbone composed of repeated silicon-oxygen bonds with organic side groups attached. Silicones have features that set them apart from other plastics due to their composition of silicon and synthetic organics. Silicones can tolerate very high and low temperatures while repelling water and grease. Sealants, caulks, lubricants, food molds, and flexible bakeware are all examples of common household silicone items. Their beneficial features are also widely applied in cosmetics, hair products, medical gadgets, and insulation. So, whether sealing bathroom tiles or baking a cake, silicones’ particular chemistry ensures flexibility and great temperature stability.

20. Sand consists of small eroded quartz silica grains

Sand is formed over time through natural weathering and erosion of quartz-containing rocks. Quartz is an abundant silicate mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms organized in a crystalline form. Quartz crystals weather out of granite and other silica-containing rocks, eventually breaking down into smaller, rough grains of quartz sand. Wind and water smooth the jagged edges as these resilient quartz particles aggregate near shorelines or combine with other degraded minerals.

Most beach, river, and desert sands are made up of tiny eroded grains of quartz and other resilient silicates. Variations in mineral composition and particle size give different sand kinds distinct colors and textures. However, rough, common quartz makes up the bulk of all sand worldwide due to its prevalence.             

21. Silicate minerals and rocks make up over 90% of Earth’s

Silicon and oxygen combine to generate plentiful silicate minerals. More than 90% of the Earth’s crust is made up of silica-based minerals. Granite, basalt, and other common rocks contain many silicate minerals. As a result, our planet’s outer layer is largely made up of silicon and oxygen in the form of inorganic silicate minerals and rocks, rather than pure elemental silicon crust

22. Amorphous silicon is used in solar power and consumer electronics

Amorphous silicon is a disorganized, glass-like type of silicon that does not form a hard crystal lattice, unlike crystalline silicon. It can be used in a variety of electronic applications. In contrast to normal silicon crystal wafers, amorphous silicon can be deposited as thin films on glass and metal surfaces. This makes it suitable for solar cells, electrical displays, and image sensors. Silicon’s flexibility and surface application increases its utility in consumer products and renewable energy gathering. As a result, the less-ordered structure of amorphous silicon allows for more flexible technological applications than regular crystalline silicon.

23. Sand is a key ingredient in the construction and industrial composites

Sand plays an integral role as a raw material in manufacturing constriction and industrial composites such as glass, fiberglass, concrete, ceramics, and abrasives. Sand quartz’s silicon dioxide content makes it suitable for the production of glass, optical fibers, and silicon wafers. Sand aggregates also increase the strength and bulk of concrete construction mixtures. Sand is also an important component of molds and castings used in metal foundries and ceramics shaping. Sand particles’ intrinsic hardness and irregularity make them.

24. It is used in car brakes, bulletproof vests, and space telescope mirrors

Silicon carbide is used in a wide range of applications that require strong and heat-resistant materials. In car brakes, silicon carbide particles are mixed into the brake pads to provide friction and allow faster stops. Bulletproof vests contain ultra-strong silicon carbide fibers woven into the vest fabric. The hardness of the material helps shield the wearer by stopping fast bullets. For telescopes in space, silicon carbide coatings on large mirrors give a super smooth surface that can precisely reflect light for sharp images of stars and galaxies. With its diamond-like hardness and heat resistance, silicon carbide outperforms other materials in demanding settings – whether stopping speeding cars, blocking bullets, or peering into the cosmos.

25. Silicone oil is heat resistant

The ability of silicone oil to be heat resistant enables its versatility for high-temperature applications. This exceptional thermal stability allows silicone oil to be used as a nonstick coating and lubricant in bakeware and cookware. Silicone prevents food from sticking to pans, enabling easier release after cooking or baking. Additionally, the heat resistance lends itself well for use in cosmetics that require exposure to high-heat tools like flat irons and curling irons. By using silicone ingredients, these hair and beauty products remain effective under the intense heat of hair dryers and styling devices. Whether providing nonstick release in pans, allowing better spreadability and application of cosmetics, or simply resisting decomposition from heat, silicone oil is an indispensable player thanks to its thermal fortitude.

26. Biogenic silica is used in toothpaste for abrasive cleaning

This component, biogenic silica is obtained from plants and they contain tiny mineral silica particles. The gritty yet fine texture of biogenic silica provides an effective scrubbing action that helps remove stains on tooth surfaces and clears away plaque buildup without being too harsh on tooth enamel. Unlike other heavy abrasives, biogenic silica is gentle enough for daily use even for those with sensitive teeth. Its mild scouring effect lifts and sweeps away debris while still safeguarding the teeth. Regular use of toothpaste containing biogenic silica keeps teeth whiter by removing surface discoloration and helps gums stay healthier with less plaque accumulation that can irritate them. With abrasive but non-damaging cleaning power, biogenic silica belongs in most toothpastes to maintain brighter smiles between dental checkups.

27. Silicon in medicines.

 Silicon compounds play critical roles in many medicines and dietary supplements. Silica hydrogels are used as anti-diarrheal drugs to quickly relieve symptoms and restore fluid balance. As an important trace mineral nutrient, silicon administered through intravenous injections can also help strengthen bones and connective tissues in deficient patients. With benefits ranging from relieving gastrointestinal distress to enhancing structural body components, silicon offers health-restoring effects in both pill and injectable medical forms. Its inclusion in medicinal preparations demonstrates silicon’s therapeutic versatility and value.

28. Silica supplements for hair, skin, and nail strength

Silica is a key mineral that helps build strong and healthy hair, skin, and nails. Many people take silica supplements made from natural sources like horsetail herb or bamboo extract to nourish these tissues from within. The tiny silica particles get deposited into hair strands and nail beds, making them less prone to splitting and breakage. Silica supplements also boost collagen production for smoothing out wrinkled skin and maintaining youthful elasticity.

Regular use of these supplements allows better nutrient absorption into hair follicles and nail cuticles to reinforce their structural integrity. As an essential mineral for improving strength and resilience, supplementing with vegetal silica translates to enhanced luster and vitality reflected in lush locks, a glowing complexion, and attractive nails that grow fast and firm. With visible improvements to outward appearance, silica truly helps nourish beauty from the inside out.

29. Microchips are installed in pets

Tracking pets has become an important tool to provide permanent identification and increase the likelihood of lost animals being returned home. These miniature microchips, about the size of a grain of rice, are inserted beneath the skin of dogs and cats with a short injection. Each microchip has a unique ID number that may be recognized by a scanner. Animal shelters and veterinary offices across the country have invested in universal scanners to read pet microchips and access a registry database for owner contact details.

If a cherished family pet goes missing or is stolen, the microchip acts as an internal tracking device to identify the animal and locate its home. Without removable collars and tags, microchips offer lifetime identification that moves with the pet. This safe, simple technology gives pet owners comfort in knowing their fur babies carry a form of identification that is reliable, traceable, and unmatched for helping reclaim lost four-legged friends.

30. Silicon does not occur naturally in its pure form

Silicon is rarely found in its pure elemental form in nature. This is because silicon atoms readily react with oxygen to form silicon dioxide, also known as silica. Silica is very abundant, making up most of the mass of sand and rock. Quartz, a crystalline form of silica, is the second most common mineral on earth. Even as silicon easily bonds with oxygen, it can still be isolated through chemical processing to yield pure elemental silicon for industrial applications like computer chips and solar cells. But left untouched, silicon tends to default to its oxide forms, comprising nearly all the silicon on earth as components of common minerals and rocks rather than in a pure elemental state. This natural chemical affinity is why silicon dioxide is prevalent while its pure form is scarce outside of synthetic production.