Gallium

Gallium is a chemical element with the symbol Ga and atomic number 31. It is a soft, silvery metal at standard temperature and pressure, and melts at slightly above room temperature. Gallium is used in semiconductors and light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

Properties and characteristics

Gallium is a soft, silvery metal, and elemental gallium is a brittle solid at low temperatures. If too much force is applied, the gallium may fracture conchoidally. It is a post-transition metal, which means it is like a metal, but has some nonmetal characteristics. It can also be found in the environment, where it is often associated with zinc and germanium.

Applications

Gallium is used in a variety of applications, including in semiconductors, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and solar panels. It is also used in the production of mirrors, in high-temperature thermometers, and in alloys with other metals.

Health effects

While gallium is not considered a hazardous substance, it should still be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and may be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.

See also

• Chemical element
• Semiconductor
• Light-emitting diode
• Solar panel

References

Gallium Resources
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