Silicon

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/silicon

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. How heavy is Silicon?Eighth most common element
2. What is the scientific name?Silicon
3. What is the atomic number?14
4. Why does silicon help make glass sparkle?When silicon combines with oxygen, it forms silicon dioxide, which is the main component of glass. This gives glass its clear, sparkling quality.
5. How does silicon work in phones and computers?Silicon can act as a semiconductor, meaning it can control the flow of electricity. This property lets tiny devices called transistors turn on and off, making modern electronics possible.

Tetravalent: An atom capable of forming four chemical bonds.
Band Gap: The energy range in a solid where no electron states exist.
Photovoltaic Cell: A device that converts light energy directly into electrical energy.
Silicate Minerals: Minerals containing silicon and oxygen, forming the majority of Earth's crust.