| Formula / Notation | Ge |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7440-56-4 |
| Molecular Weight | 72.63 |
| Melting Point | 938.3 |
| Boiling Point | 2833.0 |
| Density | 5.32 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Lustrous, hard, greyish-white metalloid |
| Also Known As | Ge, germanium element |
| Category | Elements |
What is Germanium?
Germanium is a lustrous, hard metalloid, atomic number 32. Its existence was predicted by Mendeleev (as eka-silicon) before its discovery in 1886. Important semiconductor material in early transistors. Now mainly used in optical fibres and infrared optics.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Germanium
Other Names / Synonyms: Ge, germanium element
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 938.3 |
| Boiling Point | 2833.0 |
| Density | 5.32 |
| Molecular Weight | 72.63 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Lustrous, hard, greyish-white metalloid |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Germanium is a lustrous, hard metalloid, atomic number 32. Its existence was predicted by Mendeleev (as eka-silicon) before its discovery in 1886. Important semiconductor material in early transistors. Now mainly used in optical fibres and infrared optics.
Optical fibres (GeO2 increases refractive index). Infrared optics and night vision (transparent to IR). Semiconductor devices (historical - first transistors). Solar cells (space applications). Polymerisation catalyst (PET production). Germanium tetrachloride precursor.
Germanium metal: low acute toxicity. Germanium tetrachloride: corrosive, reacts with moisture to form HCl. Germane (GeH4): flammable and toxic gas. Organic germanium compounds: low toxicity but some concerns about renal toxicity with excessive intake.
The formula or notation for Germanium is: Ge