In 1825 Swedish chemist Jöns Jakob Berzelius obtained pure elemental silicon by the action of metallic potassium on silicon fluoride SiF4. The name "silicon" was given to the new element (from Latin silex - flint). Russian name"silicon" was introduced in 1834 by the Russian chemist German Ivanovich Hess. Translated into Greek kremnos - "rock, mountain".

In terms of prevalence in earth's crust silicon among all elements takes the second place (after oxygen). The mass of the earth's crust is 27.6-29.5% silicon. Silicon is a constituent of several hundred different natural silicates and aluminosilicates. Silica or silicon oxide (IV) SiO2 (river sand, quartz, flint, etc.) is most common, making up about 12% of the earth's crust (by mass). Silicon is not found in free form in nature.

The crystal lattice of silicon is cubic face-centered like diamond, parameter a = 0.54307 nm (other polymorphic modifications of silicon were also obtained at high pressures), but due to the longer bond length between Si-Si atoms compared to the length C-C connections silicon is much less hard than diamond. Silicon is brittle, only when heated above 800 °C does it become plastic. Interestingly, silicon is transparent to infrared radiation.

Elemental silicon is a typical semiconductor. The band gap at room temperature is 1.09 eV. The concentration of charge carriers in silicon with intrinsic conductivity at room temperature is 1.5·1016m-3. The electrical properties of crystalline silicon are greatly affected by the microimpurities contained in it. To obtain single crystals of silicon with hole conductivity, additives of elements of the III group - boron, aluminum, gallium and indium are introduced into silicon, with electronic conductivity - additives elements V-th groups - phosphorus, arsenic or antimony. The electrical properties of silicon can be varied by changing the processing conditions of single crystals, in particular, by treating the silicon surface with various chemical agents.

Silicon is currently the main material for electronics. Monocrystalline silicon is a material for gas laser mirrors. Sometimes silicon (technical grade) and its alloy with iron (ferrosilicon) are used to produce hydrogen in the field. Compounds of metals with silicon - silicides, are widely used in industry (for example, electronic and atomic) materials with a wide range of useful chemical, electrical and nuclear properties (resistance to oxidation, neutrons, etc.), as well as silicides of a number of elements are important thermoelectric materials. Silicon is used in metallurgy in the smelting of iron, steel, bronze, silumin, etc. (as a deoxidizer and modifier, as well as an alloying component).

Of course, in our understanding, this is something of a single whole. But having its own structure and composition. This includes all celestial bodies and objects, matter, energy, gas, dust and more. All this was formed and exists, regardless of whether we see it or feel it.

Scientists have long considered such questions: What formed such a universe? And what elements fill it?

Today we will talk about which element is the most common in the universe.

It turns out that this chemical element is the lightest in the world. In addition, its monatomic form makes up approximately 87% of the total composition of the universe. In addition, it is found in most molecular compounds. Even in water, or, for example, he is part of organic matter. In addition, hydrogen is a particularly important constituent of acid-base reactions.
In addition, the element is soluble in most metals. Interestingly, hydrogen is odorless, colorless, and tasteless.

In the process of studying, scientists called hydrogen a combustible gas.
As soon as it was not defined. At one time, he bore the name of giving birth to water, and then water-creating substance.
Only in 1824 it was given the name hydrogen.

Hydrogen makes up 88.6% of all atoms. The rest is mostly helium. And only a small part is other elements.
Consequently, stars and other gases contain mostly hydrogen.
By the way, again, it is also present in stellar temperatures. However, in the form of plasma. And in outer space it is represented in the form of molecules, atoms and ions. Interestingly, hydrogen is able to form molecular clouds.

Characterization of hydrogen

Hydrogen is a unique element because it does not have a neutron. It contains only one proton and an electron.
As stated, it is the lightest gas. It is important that the smaller the mass of molecules, the higher their speed. Even the temperature doesn't affect it.
The thermal conductivity of hydrogen is one of the highest among all gases.
Among other things, it is highly soluble in metals, which affects its ability to diffuse through them. Sometimes the process leads to destruction. For example, the interaction of hydrogen and carbon. In this case, decarbonization occurs.

The advent of hydrogen

It originated in the universe after the Big Bang. Like all chemical elements. According to theory, in the first microseconds after the explosion, the temperature of the universe was above 100 billion degrees. What formed the bond of three quarks. In turn, this interaction created a proton. Thus, the nucleus of the hydrogen atom arose. During the expansion, the temperature dropped and quarks formed protons and neutrons. So, in fact, hydrogen appeared.

In the interval from 1 to 100 seconds after the formation of the universe, part of the protons and neutrons combined. Thus forming another element, helium.
In the future, the expansion of space and, as a result, the decrease in temperature suspended the connecting reactions. Importantly, they re-launched inside the stars. This is how atoms of other chemical elements were formed.
As a result, it turns out that hydrogen and helium are the main engines for the formation of other elements.

Helium is generally the second most abundant element in the universe. Its share is 11.3% of the total outer space.

helium properties

It, like hydrogen, is odorless, colorless and tasteless. In addition, it is the second lightest gas. But its boiling point is the lowest known.

Helium is an inert, non-toxic and monatomic gas. Its thermal conductivity is high. According to this characteristic, it again ranks second after hydrogen.
Helium production is carried out by separation at low temperature.
Interestingly, helium was previously considered a metal. But in the process of studying, it was determined that it was a gas. Moreover, the main part of the universe.

All elements on Earth, with the exception of hydrogen and helium, were generated billions of years ago by the alchemy of stars, some of which are now inconspicuous white dwarfs somewhere on the other side. Milky Way. The nitrogen in our DNA, the calcium in our teeth, the iron in our blood, the carbon in our apple pies are created in the core of shrinking stars.

We are made from star matter.
Carl Sagan

Applying elements

Mankind has learned how to extract and use chemical elements for its own benefit. So hydrogen and helium are used in many fields of activity. For example, in:

• Food Industry;
• metallurgy;
• chemical industry;
• oil refining;
• electronics manufacturing;
• cosmetic industry;
• geology;
• even in military sphere and etc.

As you can see, these elements play an important role in the life of the universe. Obviously, our very existence directly depends on them. We know that every minute there is growth and movement. And despite the fact that they are individually small, everything around is based on these elements.
Truly, hydrogen and helium, as well as other chemical elements, are unique and amazing. Perhaps it is impossible to argue with this.

According to most scientists, the emergence of chemical elements in the universe occurred after the Big Bang. At the same time, some substances were formed more, some less. Our top contains a list of the most common chemical elements on Earth and in the universe.

Hydrogen is leading the way. In the periodic table, it is denoted by the symbol H and atomic number 1. Opened in 1766 by G. Cavendish. And 15 years later, the same scientist found out that hydrogen is involved in the formation of most substances on the planet.

Hydrogen is not only the most abundant, but also the most explosive and lightest chemical element in the universe in nature. In the earth's crust, its volume is 1%, but the number of atoms is 16%. This element is included in many natural compounds, for example, in oil, natural gas, coal.

Hydrogen is almost never found in the free state. On the surface of the Earth, it is present in some volcanic gases. It is in the air, but in very small doses. Almost half of the structure of stars, most of the interstellar sphere and gases of nebulae are occupied by hydrogen.

Helium is the second most common element in the universe. It is also considered the second lightest. In addition, helium has the lowest boiling point of any known substance.

Discovered in 1868 by the French astronomer P. Jansen, who discovered a bright yellow line in the circumsolar atmosphere. And in 1895, the English chemist W. Ramsay proved the existence of this element on Earth.

Except under extreme conditions, helium is present only as a gas. In space, it was formed in the first moments after the Big Bang. Today, helium appears during thermonuclear fusion with hydrogen in the depths of the stars. On Earth, it is formed after the decay of heavy elements.

The most abundant element in the earth's crust (49.4%) is oxygen. Denoted by the symbol O and the number 8. Indispensable for the existence of man.

Oxygen is a chemically inactive non-metal. At standard conditions is in a colorless gaseous state, odorless and tasteless. A molecule contains two atoms. In liquid form, it has a light blue tint; in solid form, it looks like crystals with a bluish tint.

Oxygen is essential for all living beings on Earth. It has been involved in the cycle of matter for over 3 billion years. Plays a significant role in the economy and nature:

• Participates in plant photosynthesis;
• Absorbed by living organisms during respiration;
• Acts as an oxidizing agent in the processes of fermentation, decay, rusting;
• Found in organic molecules;
• Necessary for obtaining valuable substances of organic synthesis.

In a liquefied state, oxygen is used for cutting and welding metals, underground and underwater work, and actions at high altitude in an airless space. Oxygen pillows are irreplaceable when performing medical manipulations.

In 4th place, nitrogen is a diatomic colorless and tasteless gas. It exists not only on our own, but also on several other planets. It consists of almost 80% earth's atmosphere. Even the human body contains up to 3% of this element.

In addition to gaseous nitrogen, there is liquid nitrogen. It is widely used in construction, industry, medical business. It is used for cooling equipment, freezing organics, getting rid of warts. Liquid nitrogen is non-explosive and non-toxic.

The element blocks oxidation and decay. Widely used in mines to form an explosion-proof environment. AT chemical production it is used to create ammonia, fertilizers, dyes, and is used as a refrigerant in cooking.

Neon is an inert, colorless, odorless atomic gas. Opened in 1989 by the British W. Ramsay and M. Travers. Derived from liquefied air by excluding other elements.

The name of the gas is translated as "new". It is distributed extremely unevenly throughout the universe. The maximum concentration was found on hot stars, in the air outer planets our system and in gaseous nebulae.

On Earth, neon is found mainly in the atmosphere, and in other parts it is negligible. Explaining the neon paucity of our planet, scientists hypothesized that once Earth lost its primary atmosphere, and with it the main volume of inert gases.

Carbon is in 6th place in the list of the most common chemical elements on Earth. In the periodic table, it is designated by the letter C. It has extraordinary properties. It is the leading biogenic element of the planet.

Known since ancient times. Included in the structure of coal, graphite, diamonds. The content in the earth's firmament is 0.15%. Not too high concentration is explained by the fact that in nature carbon is subjected to constant circulation.

There are several minerals containing this element:

• Anthracite;
• Oil;
• Dolomite;
• Limestone;
• oil shale;
• Peat;
• Brown and hard coal;
• Natural gas;
• Bitumen.

The storage of carbon groups are living beings, plants and air.

Silicon is a non-metal commonly found in the earth's crust. It was bred in free form in 1811 by J. Tenard and J. Gay-Lussac. The content in the planetary shell is 27.6-29.5% by mass, in ocean water - 3 mg / l.

Many compounds of silicon have been known since ancient times. But the pure element remained beyond the bounds of human knowledge for a long time. The most popular compounds were ornamental and precious stones based on silicon oxide:

• Rhinestone;
• Onyx;
• Opal;
• Chalcedony;
• Chrysoprase, etc.

In nature, the element is found in:

• Mountain massive rocks and deposits;
• Plants and marine life;
• Deep in the soil;
• In the organisms of living beings;
• At the bottom of the ponds.

Silicon plays a huge role in the formation of the human body. Every day, at least 1 gram of the element should get inside, otherwise unpleasant ailments will begin to appear. The same can be said for plants and animals.

Magnesium is a malleable, lightweight metal with a silvery tint. In the periodic table marked with the symbol Mg. Received in 1808 by the Englishman G. Davy. It occupies the 8th place in terms of volume in the earth's crust. Natural sources are mineral deposits, brines and sea water.

In the standard state, it is covered with a layer of magnesium oxide, which decomposes at a temperature of +600-650 0 C. When burned, it emits a bright white flame with the formation of nitride and oxide.

Metal magnesium is used in many areas:

• When regenerating titanium;
• In obtaining light casting alloys;
• In the creation of incendiary and lighting rockets.

Magnesium alloys are the most important structural material in the transport and aviation industries.

Magnesium is called the "metal of life" for a reason. Without it, most physiological processes are impossible. It plays a leading role in the functioning of the nervous and muscle tissue, is involved in lipid, protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Iron is a malleable, silvery-white metal with high level chemical reaction. Denoted by the letters Fe. Rusts quickly at elevated temperatures/humidity. Ignites in purified oxygen. Able to ignite spontaneously in finely dispersed air.

In everyday life, iron is called its alloys with a minimum amount of additives that retain the ductility of pure metal:

• Steel;
• Cast iron;
• Alloy steel.

It is believed that iron makes up the main percentage of the earth's core. It has several levels of oxidation, which is the most important geochemical feature.

Sulfur occupies tenth place in the list of the most common chemical elements on Earth. Designated with the letter S. Shows non-metallic characteristics. In its native state, it appears as a light yellow powder with a characteristic aroma or as brilliant crystals of a glassy yellow color. In the regions of ancient and recent volcanism, crumbly sulfur deposits are found.

Without sulfur, it is impossible to carry out many industrial operations:

• Release of preparations for agricultural needs;
• Giving special characteristics to some grades of steel;
• Formation of sulfuric acid;
• rubber production;
• Production of sulfates and more.

Medical sulfur is found in skin ointments, it is used to treat rheumatism and gout, and is included in cosmetic skin care preparations. It is used in the manufacture of gypsum, laxatives and drugs for hypertension.

Video

We all know that hydrogen fills our Universe by 75%. But do you know what other chemical elements are no less important for our existence and play a significant role in the life of people, animals, plants and our entire Earth? Elements from this rating form our entire Universe!

Sulfur (prevalence relative to silicon - 0.38)
This chemical element in the periodic table is listed under the symbol S and is characterized by atomic number 16. Sulfur is very common in nature.

Iron (prevalence relative to silicon - 0.6)
Denoted by the symbol Fe, atomic number - 26. Iron is very common in nature, it plays a particularly important role in the formation of the inner and outer shells of the Earth's core.

Magnesium (prevalence relative to silicon - 0.91)
In the periodic table, magnesium can be found under the symbol Mg, and its atomic number is 12. What is most surprising about this chemical element is that it is most often released when stars explode in the process of their transformation into supernovae.

Silicon (prevalence relative to silicon - 1)
Referred to as Si. The atomic number of silicon is 14. This gray-blue metalloid is very rare in the earth's crust in its pure form, but is quite common in other substances. For example, it can be found even in plants.

Carbon (prevalence relative to silicon - 3.5)
Carbon in Mendeleev's table of chemical elements is listed under the symbol C, its atomic number is 6. The most famous allotropic modification of carbon is one of the most coveted gems in the world - diamonds. Carbon is also actively used in other industrial purposes for a more everyday purpose.

Nitrogen (abundance relative to silicon - 6.6)
Symbol N, atomic number 7. First discovered by Scottish physician Daniel Rutherford, nitrogen is most commonly found in the form nitric acid and nitrates.

Neon (abundance relative to silicon - 8.6)
It is designated by the symbol Ne, the atomic number is 10. It is no secret that this particular chemical element is associated with a beautiful glow.

Oxygen (abundance relative to silicon - 22)
A chemical element with the symbol O and atomic number 8, oxygen is indispensable for our existence! But this does not mean that it is present only on Earth and serves only for human lungs. The universe is full of surprises.

Helium (abundance relative to silicon - 3.100)
Helium symbol is He, atomic number is 2. It is colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, and its boiling point is the lowest among all chemical elements. And thanks to him, the balls soar up!

Hydrogen (abundance relative to silicon - 40.000)
True number one on our list, hydrogen is listed under the symbol H and has atomic number 1. It is the lightest chemical element on the periodic table and the most abundant element in the entire known universe.

The universe hides many secrets in its depths. Since ancient times, people have sought to unravel as many of them as possible, and, despite the fact that this does not always work out, science is advancing by leaps and bounds, allowing us to learn more and more about our origin. So, for example, many will be interested in what is the most common in the universe. Most people will immediately think of water, and they are partly right, because the most common element is hydrogen.

The most common element in the universe

It is extremely rare that people have to deal with hydrogen in its pure form. However, in nature it is very often found in association with other elements. For example, when hydrogen reacts with oxygen, it turns into water. And this is far from the only compound that contains this element; it is found everywhere not only on our planet, but also in space.

How did the earth come into being

Many millions of years ago, hydrogen, without exaggeration, became the building material for the entire universe. After all, after big bang, which became the first stage of the creation of the world, there was nothing but this element. elementary, because it consists of only one atom. Over time, the most abundant element in the universe began to form clouds, which later became stars. And already inside them reactions took place, as a result of which new, more complex elements appeared that gave rise to the planets.

Hydrogen

This element accounts for about 92% of the atoms of the universe. But it is found not only in the composition of stars, interstellar gas, but also common elements on our planet. Most often it exists in a bound form, and the most common compound is, of course, water.

In addition, hydrogen is part of a number of carbon compounds that form oil and natural gas.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that this is the most common element in the world, surprisingly, it can be dangerous for humans, because it sometimes ignites when reacting with air. To understand how important hydrogen played in the creation of the universe, it is enough to realize that without it, there would be nothing living on Earth.