Germanium (Noun)
Meaning
A brittle grey crystalline element that is a semiconducting metalloid (resembling silicon) used in transistors; occurs in germanite and argyrodite.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The microprocessor was fabricated using germanium, which was used as the semiconducting material to amplify weak electrical signals.
- The transistor revolutionized electronics, with germanium as its primary component, making devices smaller, faster, and more efficient.
- The unique properties of germanium make it an essential material in the production of solar panels, night vision devices, and optical fibers.
- Scientists are researching the use of germanium as a possible substitute for silicon in the production of microchips, which could potentially lead to significant performance improvements.
- In its elemental form, germanium is a brittle, grey-white metalloid with a high density, found in the ores germanite and argyrodite.