Tellurium
Tellurium (Te)
Tellurium is a chemical element with the symbol Te and atomic number 52. It belongs to the group of chalcogens and is a rare, brittle, silvery-white metal. Tellurium was discovered in 1782 by Franz-Joseph Müller von Reichenstein and was named after the Latin word "tellus," meaning Earth.
Properties of Tellurium
- Atomic Number: 52
- Symbol: Te
- Atomic Mass: 127.60 u
- Group: Chalcogens
- State at Room Temperature: Solid
- Density: 6.24 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 449.51 °C
- Boiling Point: 988 °C
Discovery and History
Tellurium was discovered in 1782 by Austrian chemist Franz-Joseph Müller von Reichenstein in a gold deposit in Transylvania. Later, in 1798, it was independently rediscovered and named by German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaproth.
Applications and Uses
- Metallurgy: Used to improve the machinability and ductility of copper and stainless steel.
- Electronics: Used in semiconductor materials and thermoelectric devices.
- Solar Industry: Used in cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells, which offer high efficiency in converting sunlight into electricity.
- Alloys: Used in lead-tellurium alloys for batteries and other applications.
Safety Measures
Tellurium and its compounds are toxic and can be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Proper safety precautions should be taken to avoid exposure.
Additional Information
More information about tellurium and its applications can be found on scientific websites and in specialized literature.
Conclusion
Tellurium is a versatile element with important applications in metallurgy, electronics, and the solar industry. Its unique chemical and physical properties make it a valuable material for various industrial processes.