Slide 1: Introduction to Silicon
Silicon, with the symbol Si and atomic number 14, is a fundamental
element in both the natural world and modern technology.
The second most abundant element in the Earth's crust (about 27% by
weight), named after the Latin word “silex” (flint or stone).
Discovered by chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius in 1824, silicon was initially
challenging to isolate due to its high reactivity with oxygen, which means
it’s rarely found in pure form.
Why It Matters: Silicon’s unique characteristics as a metalloid allow it
to conduct electricity under certain conditions, making it a key material in
electronics, construction, and more.
Slide 2: Atomic Structure of Silicon
Atomic Composition: Silicon has 14 protons (positive particles) in its
nucleus, balanced by 14 electrons (negative particles) orbiting the
nucleus in defined energy levels or “shells.”
Electron Configuration: Electrons are arranged as 2 in the first shell, 8
in the second shell, and 4 in the third (2-8-4 configuration), making silicon
versatile in bonding with other elements.
Subatomic Particles:
Protons and Neutrons: Reside in the nucleus; protons give positive
charge, while neutrons are neutral, both contributing to atomic
[Link]: Negatively charged particles move around the nucleus in
energy levels.
o Bonding Capability: Silicon’s 4 valence (outer-shell)
electrons allow it to form up to 4 bonds with other elements,
making it crucial for forming stable, durable compounds.
Slide 3: Physical Properties of Silicon
Title: Silicon’s Physical Properties
Content:
State and Appearance: At room temperature, silicon is a solid with a
metallic-grey color and crystalline structure.
Density of 2.33 grams per cubic centimeter, and it is relatively hard,
making it useful in applications requiring durability.
Melts at 1414Cand boils at 3265C, showing a high resistance to heat and
making it suitable for high-temperature applications.
As a semiconductor, silicon can conduct electricity better than insulators
but less effectively than metals, which is critical in electronic devices for
controlling electrical flow.
Slide 4: Chemical Properties of Silicon
Title: Silicon’s Chemical Properties
Content:
Reactivity: Silicon is moderately reactive; it reacts with oxygen to form
silicon dioxide (SiO₂), a compound present in sand, quartz, and glass.
Oxidation States: Often has an oxidation state of +4, meaning it can
lose or share four electrons when forming bonds.
Bonding Type: Forms covalent bonds by sharing electrons with other
atoms, making it stable and durable in compounds.
Allotropes: Exists primarily in a crystalline form, with a structured
arrangement of atoms that makes it suitable for use in microchips and
solar cells.
Slide 5: Characteristics and Behavior of Silicon
Title: Metalloid Characteristics of Silicon
Content:
Metalloid Nature: Silicon has properties of both metals and non-metals,
allowing it to act as a semiconductor—a material that can conduct
electricity in certain conditions, essential for computer chips.
Semiconductor Properties: As a semiconductor, silicon’s electrical
conductivity can be adjusted by adding impurities (a process called
doping), controlling its ability to conduct current.
Bonding Flexibility: Due to four valence electrons, silicon can form
various compounds, such as silicon carbide (used in abrasives) and silicon
nitride (used in electronics).
Slide 6: Silicon's Role in Technology
Title: Silicon: The Foundation of Modern Technology
Content:
Microchips and Transistors: Silicon’s ability to control electricity makes
it the core material in computer processors and memory chips, forming
the foundation of electronic devices.
Solar Cells: In photovoltaic cells (solar cells), silicon absorbs sunlight,
converting it into electricity via the photovoltaic effect, a process where
light energy dislodges electrons to create current.
Doping Process in Electronics: Silicon's conductivity can be adjusted
by introducing tiny amounts of elements like phosphorus or boron, which
either add electrons (n-type) or create holes (p-type) to help control
electrical flow.
Slide 7: Practical Applications of Silicon
Title: Everyday Uses of Silicon Compounds and Materials
Content:
Construction: Silicon dioxide is a primary ingredient in concrete, glass,
and ceramics, making it essential for buildings, windows, and
infrastructure.
Medical Uses: Silicon-based materials, especially silicones (flexible,
rubbery compounds), are used in implants, prosthetics, and medical
tubing due to their compatibility with human tissue.
Household Products: Silicones are used for non-stick cookware,
sealants, adhesives, and waterproofing due to their flexibility, resistance
to temperature changes, and durability.
