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Definition of the Selenium Element
A non-metallic element, red
in powder form, black in vitreous form, and metallic gray in
crystalline form, resembling sulfur and obtained primarily as a
by-product of electrolytic copper refining. It is widely used in
rectifiers, as a semiconductor, and in xerography. Its
photovoltaic and photoconductive actions make it useful in
photocells, photographic exposure meters, and solar cells.
Origin / Meaning of the name Selenium
The name originates
from the Greek word 'selene' meaning Moon.
Classification of the Selenium Element
Selenium is
classified as an element in the 'Non-metals' section which can be
located in groups 14,15 and 16 of the Periodic Table. Non-metals
are not easily able to conduct electricity or heat and do not
reflect light . Non-metallic elements are very brittle, and cannot
be rolled into wires or pounded into sheets. Non-metallic elements
exist, at room temperature, in two of the three states of matter :
gases (such as oxygen) and solids (such as carbon).
Facts about the
Discovery and
History of the Selenium
Element
Selenium was discovered by
Jons Jacob Berzelius
in 1817
Occurrence the Selenium Element
Occurs as selenide in many sulfide ores
Obtained primarily as a by-product of electrolytic copper refining
Associated Uses of Selenium
TV cameras
Xerography
Photographic equipment
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