It is an element with semi-metallic properties between germanium metal and nonmetals. Germanium has the symbol Ge, atomic number 32, and atomic weight 72.59. Germanium has a melting point of 937 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 2800 degrees Celsius. Germanium is oxidized in air at 600-700 degrees Celsius. Information about What is Germanium, Germanium usage areas, etc. are in the rest of article. Information about ruthenium, you can browse here.
What is Germanium? Who found Germanium ?
Germanium, which is one of the semi-metal elements, was found by Dimitri Mendeleev in 1871. Germanium is one of the rare elements and its occurrence rate in the earth is between 0.004 percent and 0.007 percent. Germanium, which is usually found in Africa, is not seen in pure form in nature, but usually in the form of an alloy. Germanium is found in 6-7 percent in argirodite mineral, approximately 8.7 percent in germanite mineral and approximately 5-7 percent in renierite mineral. In addition, germanium is obtained as a by-product during the purification of zinc. Germanium sulfide obtained here is reduced with hydrogen and carbon. Germanium is also produced during the burning of soft tar coal.
Where is Germanium Used? Is Germanium Conductive?
Germanium is a semiconductor element. In other words, it is a semi-metal whose conductivity is between metal and nonmetals. Pure germanium acts as an insulator at low temperatures. Due to its aforementioned features, it is widely used in the electronics industry.
The importance and use of germanium has increased since 1945. Germanium is used in making transistors and diodes. Since it is a low cost and suitable element, its use in this field has become widespread especially in the 1960s. Germanium diodes are in the shape of a thin disc and are made of thin wires. Since germanium has a high refractive index, it is used in making optical elements. Germanium is used in microscope lenses, infrared spectroscopes, infrared detectors, projectors and some chemical treatment methods.
For other precious metals: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precious_metal
