(L. slex, silicis, flint) Discovery by Berzelius in 1824. Silicon is present in the sun,stars and meteorites. It is the second most abundant element in the earth's crust, not found free in nature, but found largely as silicon oxides such as sand(silica),quartz, rock crystal, amethyst, agate, flint, jasper and opal. Also found in minerals such as asbestos, feldspar, clay and mica.
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metalloid,metallic luster, gray solid, mostly inert except for some strong acids
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semiconductors, computer industry,electronics,cells for solar energy,used to make concrete and bricks,glass,enamels,pure silicon is expensive