germanium

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germanium (symbol Ge) Grey-white metalloid element of group IV of the periodic table, discovered in 1886 by German chemist Clements Winkler. A by-product of zinc ores or the combustion of certain coals, it is important in semiconductor devices. In compounds, it is used in transistors, alloys, and as catalysts. Properties: at.no. 32; r.a.m. 72.59; r.d. 5.35; m.p. 937°C (1719 °F); b.p. 2830°C (5126°F); most common isotope Ge74 (36.54%).

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