What is Gallium?
Gallium is a chemical element that is not found in nature, but is easily obtained when metal is melted. This element is characterized by a silver shade and is generally classified as a bad metal due to the fact that at lower temperatures it becomes quite fragile. It also showed a tendency towards liquefaction or slightly melting at higher temperatures. Gallium is therefore not considered suitable for many applications that are common with other metal elements.
This element was first identified by Lecoq de Boisbaudran in 1875, while working with a zinc mixture, which was provided from the Pyrenees. When using a spectroscope to explore the DE Boisbaudran sample, the presence of two purple lines with a spectrum. The qualities of this new discovery were in line with predictions for the new elements that were documented in Mendeleev's periodic theory a few years ago. Further experimentation allowed de boisbaudran to get Gallium through a process involving electrolysis. AfterVerification of his research was given a new element his name and granted atomic number 31.
When exposed to low temperatures, Gallium shows crystalline properties that are similar to glass compounds, but without their strength. In fact, the element can break if the temperature drops sufficiently. Despite this disadvantage, it has properties that make it ideal semiconductor. LEDs benefit from its presence, while transistors can be produced more efficiently and cheaply using the element. As a replacement for crystalline silicon in the production of solar panels, Gallium promises that the production of this important form of alternative energy is more affordable.
Among the different chemical elements Gallium works very well with aluminum in creating useful alloys. For example, its combination of aluminum will effectively interrupt the bond between oxygen and hydrogen in water. Experimenting with a mixture of liquefied element and tin indicating that the resulting alloy could bI will be useful in keeping the temperature of computer chips at acceptable levels. Combination with India and Tin is now often used in medical thermometers. For the production of oral drugs and topical creams that help with arthritis, the nitrate Gallia, a common variant that is used. Research focused on the use of this element is also available as part of developing dental technology.