silicon

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silicon (symbol Si) Common, grey, nonmetallic element of group IV of the periodic table. Silicon is found only in combinations, such as silica and silicate. It is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust (27.7% by weight). Silicon chips are extensively used in microprocessors. It was discovered in 1823 by Swedish chemist J. J. Berzelius. Properties: at.no. 14; r.a.m. 28.086; r.d. 2.33; m.p. 1410°C (2570°F); b.p. 2355°C (4271°F); most common isotope Si28 (98.21%).

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Periodic Table of the Elements Silicon

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Periodic Table of the Elements Silicon