Silicon is a nonmetallic element. As the most abundant element next to oxygen, it exists in the earth's crust, mainly in the form of oxides and refractory silicates. Silicon has obvious nonmetallic characteristics. Silicon atoms are located in the fourth main group of the periodic table of elements. Its atomic number is Z= 14, and there are 14 electrons outside the nucleus.
Outside the nucleus, electrons are surrounded by layers from low silicon atoms to high energy levels and from inside to outside, which is the so-called shell structure of electrons. The extranuclear electrons of silicon atoms have two electrons in the first layer and eight electrons in the second layer, reaching a stable state. The outermost four electrons are valence electrons, which play a leading role in the conductivity of silicon atoms.
Application of silicon
1. electrical industry: due to some characteristics of silicon, we can use it to make various diodes, triodes and solar photovoltaic cells, which can well convert radiant energy into electrical energy.
2. Architecture: Silicon is used to build houses, etc. Because it has the characteristics of corrosion resistance and strong compression resistance.
3. Medical treatment: Silicon can be used to manufacture various medical machines or equipment, which plays a very important role to a certain extent.
4. Agriculture: Silicon can improve the resistance of plants to drought, ultraviolet rays, pests and diseases, so it plays a very important role in agricultural development.
5. Food: As a special material, silicon is widely used in food industry because it can effectively reduce the moldy problem of food.
The above contents refer to Baidu Encyclopedia-Silicon.